The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency has approved a request from the Government of Japan to buy up to $US150 million worth of Aegis combat system upgrade and support services.
The Japan Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF) currently operates eight Aegis equipped guided missile destroyers - four Kongō, two Atago, and two Maya class. It is also building two large Aegis system equipped vessels (ASEV) using equipment originally intended for a land-based Aegis ashore site.
The approved package includes a range of upgrades and services including Aegis computer software updates; system integration and testing; in-country and on-site engineering support; familiarisation; sustainment; operational support; system overhauls; and system upgrades.
"The proposed sale is critical to ensure the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force’s Aegis Destroyer fleet and computer program test sites remain ready to provide capabilities in the defense of Japan," the DSCA stated in a 3 September press release.