Lockheed Martin is strengthening its longstanding cooperation with Japanese companies while exploring joint development and joint production with them to bring SPY-7-equipped vessels into operational use.
Lockheed Martin said it has provided equipment and cooperated in Japan for approximately 70 years, and disclosed a track record of cooperation with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries involving the SH-60J/K and other systems, as well as projects involving the F-35, PAC-3 and VLS. More recently, it has been advancing cooperation with Fujitsu on the SPY-7 shipborne radar.
SPY-7 uses a design that combines multiple SAS units to form a large antenna, and is expected to offer greater detection range and accuracy than the conventional SPY-1. For Japan, it is scheduled to be installed on ASEV vessels, and it was reported that the “Stellar Tengu” performance verification test was successfully completed in March 2026. Fujitsu has also reached an agreement to manufacture the power supply for a critical SPY-7 component and has already begun production.
Against the backdrop of the revision of the Japanese government's operational guidelines for the Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology, and amid growing momentum for Japan-U.S. defense industry cooperation, Watanabe (渡部) said the company is considering cooperation that goes a step beyond licensed production, including joint development and joint production across the supply chain.
The company is also positive about working with startups in the future and has indicated a policy of supporting Japanese companies' efforts. It also plans to use intergovernmental frameworks, including the Japan-U.S. Defense Industrial Cooperation, Acquisition and Sustainment (DICAS) consultations, while considering cooperation with academia and overseas expansion.