Northrop Grumman Appoints Toshihiko Sek To Lead Air Power Programs In Tokyo

Northrop Grumman has announced the appointment of retired Col. Toshihiko Seki as head, Air Power Programs, based in the company's Tokyo office.

He joins Northrop Grumman after a successful 30-year career in the Japan Air Self Defense Force (JASDF), the company said.

In this new role, Seki will focus on identifying how Northrop Grumman's intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities may assist the JASDF to meet its demanding mission requirements, while also supporting the sustainability of Japan's current fleet of 13 Northrop Grumman E-2C airborne early warning aircraft. His appointment was effective in January.

"Northrop Grumman is dedicated to serving the unique needs of the Japan defense and security market, and so we are delighted that Col. Seki has joined us," said Mary Petryszyn, vice president, international, Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems. "His years of experience and leadership give him a valuable depth of perspective as we move forward with our partnerships in Japan."

A graduate of Rikkyo University and the Japan Command and Staff course, Seki has held several diverse staff postings. He served as a rated F-4 and RF-4 Phantom aircraft pilot; commander of the JASDF's 501^st  Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron; chief of Plans and Programs for Japan's deployed forces in Iraq; U.S. and Japan Exercise coordinator; director of Public Affairs for Japan Joint Staff; and head of Plans and Operations for the Air Development Command.

In Iraq, he served with a Ministry of Defense contingent supporting airlift and civil engineering from 2005 to 2006. He also served as a public affairs officer for the Ministry and Japan's Joint Staff upon his return. His final position was as inspector general for the Air Development and Test Command.