Lockheed Martin has officially delivered the first shipset of SPY-7(V)1 radar antennas to Japan, marking a critical milestone in the development of Japan’s next-generation ballistic missile defense warships. The set, which includes four high-performance radar antennas, will be integrated into the country’s future Aegis System Equipped Vessels (ASEVs). These vessels are part of Japan’s defense expansion plan, with two units expected to be commissioned in fiscal years 2027 and 2028.
The SPY-7 radar system is also gaining traction with other allied nations. In Canada, Lockheed will equip the new River-class destroyers with the radar — these ships will eventually replace the Royal Canadian Navy’s Iroquois-class destroyers and Halifax-class frigates. Spain has likewise adopted the SPY-7 for its F-110-class frigates, aimed at reinforcing maritime defense capabilities.
Japan’s ramped-up defense initiatives come amid growing security concerns in the Indo-Pacific, particularly regarding China’s assertive posture. Reflecting this urgency, Japan approved a historic defense budget of 8.7 trillion yen (roughly $55.1 billion USD) in December, prioritizing advanced technologies and regional deterrence.
