US Approves $1.5 Billion Lockheed's Aegis combat system to Japan

The US State Department has approved a $1.5 billion sale to Japan of two Lockheed Martin Corp Aegis combat systems for boosting Japan's defenses against a ballistic missile attack.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced Friday that the Aegis combat systems and associated equipment would be installed on two new Japanese guided missile destroyers, or DDGs, expanding Japan's ability to carry out joint military missions with the US Navy.

The two new Aegis DDGs addition to Japan's fleet will provide more flexibility and capability to counter regional threats and continue to enhance stability in the region.

The DSCA delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on August 4, 2015. The proposed sale will complete Japan's goal of acquiring eight ships capable of ballistic missile defense.

Lockheed is the primary contractor for the Aegis weapons system that integrates radars, computers, software, displays, weapons launchers and weapons to defend against various surface, aerial and underwater threats.

DSCA stated that Japanese industry has requested to work with US industry as sub-contractors for selected components and software, including sonar systems to be built by NEC Corp , Aegis display software by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and display hardware to be built by Fujitsu.