Raytheon has clinched a $250-million deal from Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (MELCO) for the licensed production of the Evolved SeaSparrow Missile (ESSM) Block 2 in Japan.
The agreement falls under a direct commercial sale. Raytheon will provide missile kits, parts, components, and technical support to MELCO, which will manufacture the advanced naval munition in its domestic facilities.
The deal strengthens Japan’s missile manufacturing and defense capabilities amid heightening regional tensions and reinforces a broader security alliance between Tokyo and Washington.
It also enables Raytheon to expand its foothold in the Asia-Pacific defense market.
“This innovative licensed production arrangement is the culmination of decades of partnership,” noted Barbara Borgonovi, president of Naval Power at Raytheon.
ESSM Block 2
Launched from ships, the ESSM Block 2 is a short- to medium-range, dual-mode guided missile designed primarily for self-defense against anti-ship cruise missiles and other aerial threats.
The 4-meter-long (13 feet) missile can travel at speeds exceeding Mach 4, with a range of more than 50 kilometers (31 miles).
Unlike its Block 1 predecessor, the upgraded variant incorporates an active radar homing seeker that allows it to autonomously track and engage targets during the terminal phase without requiring continuous illumination from the launching vessel’s radar.
It also features improved maneuverability, enhanced performance, a digital processing margin for software upgrades, and integration with various combat systems and launchers.
