Lockheed Martin and Japan Strengthen Indo-Pacific Defense Ties

Partnering for Regional Strength: Lockheed Martin and Japan in the Indo-Pacific

The Indo-Pacific region, stretching from the eastern coast of Africa through the Indian Ocean to the western Pacific, has emerged as a focal point of global economic and strategic interests. With over 60% of the world’s GDP and more than half of global maritime trade passing through this region, stability and security here are essential to global prosperity. Japan, as one of the most technologically advanced and economically robust nations in the region, plays a pivotal role in maintaining that stability.

Lockheed Martin, a leading U.S. defense and aerospace company, has been a key partner in Japan’s journey to enhance its defense posture. Through a series of strategic collaborations, including cutting-edge technologies like the F-35 Lightning II, the Aegis System Equipped Vessel (ASEV), and the SEWIP system, Lockheed Martin has helped Japan build a diversified and modern defense infrastructure. This partnership underscores the broader geopolitical alignment between the U.S. and Japan, emphasizing a shared commitment to peace, security, and technological advancement in the Indo-Pacific.

Strengthening Maritime Defense: SEWIP and Aegis Systems

SEWIP: Enhancing Electronic Warfare Capabilities

The Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program (SEWIP), developed by Lockheed Martin, is a critical component in modern naval defense. Japan’s acquisition of SEWIP marks a significant leap in its maritime self-defense capabilities. The system allows ships to detect, analyze, and respond to electronic threats in the radio frequency spectrum, enhancing situational awareness and survivability in contested environments.

By integrating SEWIP into its naval forces, Japan not only boosts its defensive capabilities but also aligns itself closely with U.S. naval standards, enabling better interoperability during joint operations. This acquisition reflects the growing defense cooperation between the two nations and Japan’s proactive approach to maritime security amid rising regional tensions.

Lockheed Martin’s delivery of SEWIP to Japan is more than a transaction, it’s a strategic move that enhances regional deterrence and showcases the depth of trust between the partners. As maritime threats evolve, electronic warfare systems like SEWIP will be central to maintaining an edge in naval operations.

“The SEWIP system is a game-changer for Japan’s maritime forces, offering real-time threat detection and electronic countermeasures essential for modern naval warfare,” Lockheed Martin

ASEV and SPY-7 Radar: A Technological Milestone

In early 2025, Lockheed Martin delivered the first AN/SPY-7(V)1 radar antenna to Japan’s Ministry of Defense, marking a milestone in the Aegis System Equipped Vessel (ASEV) program. The SPY-7 radar, known for its scalability and advanced tracking capabilities, is designed to detect and intercept both air and ballistic missile threats. This system complements Japan’s existing fleet of eight Aegis-equipped destroyers, reinforcing the nation’s layered missile defense architecture.

For over three decades, Lockheed Martin has served as a key integrator for Japan’s maritime defense systems. The ASEV, equipped with SPY-7, represents the next evolution in this long-standing partnership. It serves as a powerful deterrent against regional threats, particularly in a security environment marked by missile proliferation and contested maritime zones.

Japan’s investment in the ASEV program is a strategic response to its evolving defense needs. With Lockheed Martin’s support, the country is not only acquiring hardware but also gaining access to decades of expertise in systems integration and operational readiness.

Air Superiority and Industrial Collaboration: The F-35 Program

Japan’s F-35 Fleet: A Strategic Investment

Japan’s commitment to the F-35 Lightning II program is one of the most visible indicators of its defense modernization strategy. With plans to acquire 147 F-35 aircraft, 105 F-35A and up to 42 F-35B models, Japan is the largest international operator of the fifth-generation fighter jet. This investment, valued at over $40 billion, reflects both strategic necessity and industrial ambition.

The F-35 offers stealth, advanced sensors, and networked capabilities that are essential for modern air combat. For Japan, these aircraft enhance its ability to defend its airspace and contribute to joint operations with allies. Moreover, the F-35B’s short takeoff and vertical landing capability allows for flexible deployment from shorter runways and naval vessels.

Participation in the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program also ensures that Japan remains integrated with U.S. defense standards and operational doctrines. This alignment is crucial for interoperability in joint missions and regional exercises.

FACO Facility in Nagoya: Localizing Production

Japan’s role in the F-35 program extends beyond procurement. The Final Assembly and Check-Out (FACO) facility in Nagoya is one of only three such facilities globally. Operated in collaboration with Japanese industry, the FACO assembles F-35A aircraft for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF), contributing to local job creation and technology transfer.

This facility symbolizes the industrial depth of the U.S.-Japan defense partnership. It enables Japan to maintain, upgrade, and potentially export advanced aircraft, reinforcing its position as a regional defense hub. Meanwhile, the F-35Bs are produced at Lockheed Martin’s plant in Fort Worth, Texas, ensuring a balanced distribution of responsibilities and benefits.

The FACO model showcases how defense collaboration can drive economic and technological gains. It also supports Japan’s broader goal of developing a self-reliant and resilient defense industrial base.

“Our commitment to Japan goes beyond business, it is about shared values and a mutual vision for peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region,” Lockheed Martin Spokesperson

Joint Operations and Regional Stability

Valiant Shield: Japan’s First Participation

In 2024, Japan participated for the first time in the Valiant Shield exercise, a biennial U.S.-led military drill aimed at enhancing joint operational capabilities. Lockheed Martin played a key role in supporting this initiative, offering logistical, technological, and operational expertise.

Valiant Shield involves air, sea, and land forces from multiple nations and focuses on real-time interoperability and threat response. Japan’s inclusion underscores its growing role in regional security and its readiness to operate alongside allies in complex scenarios.

Lockheed Martin’s support in such exercises is instrumental in ensuring that participating forces can leverage advanced technologies effectively. These joint drills not only build trust but also prepare nations to respond collectively to emerging threats in the Indo-Pacific.

Strategic Vision and Future Outlook

The partnership between Japan and Lockheed Martin is evolving to meet the demands of a changing strategic environment. In 2024, both parties signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on next-generation defense technologies, including autonomous systems and advanced missile defense solutions.

Japan’s Ministry of Defense has increased its defense budget to approximately $55 billion for FY2024, reflecting a clear prioritization of capabilities that align with Lockheed Martin’s offerings. This includes integrated systems that combine artificial intelligence, cyber resilience, and multi-domain operations.

Experts like Dr. Hiroshi Tanaka of the University of Tokyo emphasize that such partnerships are not just about technology but about shaping the regional balance of power. Lockheed Martin’s integration into Japan’s defense ecosystem is seen as a force multiplier for regional stability.

Conclusion

The strategic collaboration between Lockheed Martin and Japan represents a cornerstone of regional security in the Indo-Pacific. Through advanced systems like SEWIP, SPY-7, and the F-35, Japan is enhancing its defense posture while fostering interoperability with key allies. These developments are not isolated, they are part of a broader trend toward integrated, multi-domain defense solutions.

As geopolitical dynamics continue to shift, partnerships rooted in mutual trust and technological innovation will be essential. Lockheed Martin and Japan are setting a precedent for how nations can collaborate to meet complex security challenges while also driving industrial growth and innovation. The future of this alliance looks strong, with shared values and strategic alignment guiding the way forward.

FAQ

What is the SEWIP system and why is it important to Japan?
SEWIP (Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program) enhances Japan’s naval defense by detecting and responding to electronic threats, increasing situational awareness and survivability.

How many F-35 aircraft is Japan acquiring?
Japan plans to acquire 147 F-35 aircraft, including 105 F-35A and up to 42 F-35B models, making it the largest international operator of the F-35.

What is the significance of the Aegis System Equipped Vessel?
The ASEV, equipped with the SPY-7 radar, strengthens Japan’s missile defense and complements its existing Aegis destroyers, enhancing layered defense capabilities.

How does the FACO facility in Nagoya contribute to the partnership?
The FACO facility assembles F-35A aircraft locally, contributing to Japan’s defense industry, technology transfer, and job creation.

What role did Japan play in the Valiant Shield exercise?
Japan participated for the first time in 2024, with Lockheed Martin providing support, enhancing joint operational readiness with allied forces.

Sources: Lockheed Martin, Japan Ministry of Defense, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), University of Tokyo, Lockheed Martin 2023 Annual Report