The AN/SPY-7(V)1 is the official designation of an LRDR-derivative used with the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System. It represents a significant advancement in naval radar technology and plays a crucial role in various defense systems worldwide.

Designation and Development

The AN/SPY-7(V)1 designation signifies its lineage within the LRDR family. It is designed to integrate seamlessly with the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System, providing enhanced capabilities for detecting and tracking ballistic missile threats. Lockheed Martin, the main contractor, has been at the forefront of its development, securing the designation for the AN/SPY-7(V)1 in 2018.

Key Features

The AN/SPY-7(V)1 boasts several key features that make it a highly advanced radar system:

• Solid-State Technology: Leveraging gallium nitride (GaN)-based, solid-state active electronically scanned array (AESA) technology, the AN/SPY-7(V)1 offers increased reliability, lower maintenance requirements, and improved efficiency compared to traditional radar systems.
• Continuous Coverage: The radar allows for continuous coverage, even during maintenance, ensuring uninterrupted surveillance and early warning capabilities.
• Modular and Scalable Design: With individual solid-state radar blocks that can be combined to scale up the size of the radar, the AN/SPY-7(V)1 offers flexibility and adaptability to different mission requirements and ship classes.

Applications

The AN/SPY-7(V)1 has diverse applications across various defense systems:

• Ballistic Missile Defense: Integrated into the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System, the AN/SPY-7(V)1 plays a vital role in detecting and tracking ballistic missile threats, contributing to national and regional security.
• Air and Surface Defense: Capable of detecting and tracking air and surface targets, the radar provides essential information for defensive measures against enemy aircraft and ships, enhancing maritime security.
• Enhanced Situational Awareness: With superior range and target discrimination capabilities, the AN/SPY-7(V)1 enhances situational awareness for naval crews, enabling them to make informed decisions in complex operational environments.

Deployment

The AN/SPY-7(V)1 is set to be deployed across various defense systems worldwide:

• Japan: The Japanese government has approved plans to purchase two pairs of AN/SPY-7(V)1 radars for the Aegis Ashore facility, with operations expected to commence in 2025.
• United States: The Missile Defense Agency has selected the AN/SPY-7(V)1 for integration into the Aegis Ashore system in Hawaii, enhancing the nation’s missile defense capabilities.
• International: Canada has chosen the AN/SPY-7(V)1 as the primary radar for its future Canadian Surface Combatant (CSC), highlighting its role as a key component of allied defense systems.

Conclusion

The AN/SPY-7(V)1 represents a pinnacle of radar technology, combining solid-state design, modular scalability, and advanced capabilities to provide unmatched performance in maritime defense. As it continues to be deployed across various defense systems worldwide, the AN/SPY-7(V)1 stands as a testament to Lockheed Martin’s commitment to innovation and security.

References

• Alaska’s Long Range Discrimination Radar on Track for 2020, Jen Judson, DefenseNews.com, 16 August 2016.
• Long Range Discrimination Radar (LRDR).
• Lockheed Martin Demonstrates Next Generation Aegis Ashore Solution, Lockheed Martin, Jan 11 2018.
• Department of Defense Identifies Planned Site of Future Long Range Discrimination Radar (LRDR), DoD press release NR-193-15, 22 May 2015, accessed 17 August 2016.
• C. Todd Lopez, DOD News, Long-Range Discrimination Radar Reshapes Adversaries’ Calculus for Attacks Against U.S. Homeland, 7 Dec 2021.
• MDA says Alaska-based missile defense radar will be operational in 2021, Jen Judson, DefenseNews, 2021-03-03.
• Missile Defense Agency cancels test of Long-Range Discrimination Radar, Jen Judson, Defense News, 2023-09-02.