Lockheed Martin strengthens Spanish SPY-7 radar supply chain
Lockheed Martin’s AN/SPY-7(V)2 radar in Spain’s F-110 multi-mission frigate. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)
The global defence giant chose a Spanish firm for its work on the Bonifaz-class frigate.
Global aerospace and defence manufacturer Lockheed Martin has chosen Spanish firm Indra, Escribano Mechanical and Engineering, and ICM (Integral de Conexión y Montajes, S.L.) to build components for its AN/SPY-7(V)2 solid-state S-band radar.
Lockheed’s S-band radar is a vital part of the build of the Spanish Navy’s new F-110 Bonifaz-class frigates, so folding the Spanish part-maker into its supply chain makes sense for the project’s resiliency and smooth running.
The new SPY-7 S-band radar is a highly sophisticated system, that can detect, track and engage both ballistic missile and air threats, and engage multiple targets simultaneously.
It has been designed as a modular, scalable, software-defined digital solid state radar, so it has greater variety of deployment and a performance several orders of magnitude greater than traditional SPY-1 radars.
The SPY-7 is also interoperable with other radars and platforms, including the Aegis Combat System. It is being fielded with domestic and international customers such as the Missile Defense Agency for the Long-Range Discrimination Radar (LRDR) and the US Navy for the Spanish F-110 frigate.
Lockheed has significant history with a Spanish supply chain. Over the last two decades, it has worked with companies across the country on a wide range of projects including microelectronic and RF components for the global SPY-1 fleet.
“These strategic collaborations empower local industries, strengthen communities and drive economic growth, all while providing the most advanced defence capabilities,” said Amr Hussein, vice-president of multi-domain combat solutions at Lockheed Martin. “By incorporating Spanish industry into radar production, we are committing to diversify our supply chain.”
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Ukraine war drives ‘minimum deployable capability’ doctrine in uncrewed systems development]()
Ukraine war drives ‘minimum deployable capability’ doctrine in uncrewed systems development
Ukraine’s battlefield has rewritten the rules of uncrewed systems development. For Syos Aerospace, real-time operator feedback, lean serial production and a system-of-systems philosophy are central to its operating model.
-
![Peru partnership may serve as a template for South Korean naval exports into South America]()
Peru partnership may serve as a template for South Korean naval exports into South America
With a growing pipeline of naval modernisation programmes in South America, South Korean companies could be set to expand their presence in the region as recent contract wins highlight growing collaboration.
-
![AUKUS plan B? Japan’s submarines stopgap gains traction]()
AUKUS plan B? Japan’s submarines stopgap gains traction
Australia’s Collins-class life of type extension has revived debate over whether Canberra needs a contingency plan as risks to every stage of the AUKUS pathway mount. With Japan newly open to exports, the case for a diesel-electric stopgap is gaining traction.
-
![Seoul’s SSN programme launch raises questions on fuel, tech and build location]()
Seoul’s SSN programme launch raises questions on fuel, tech and build location
Seoul has unveiled its “Jangbogo-N Project” to develop domestically built, nuclear-propelled attack submarines in close coordination with Washington, marking an escalation of the Republic of Korea’s deterrence posture against Pyongyang’s undersea nuclear capabilities.
