Lockheed Martin and shipbuilder Navantia successfully performed initial at-sea testing of the first Aegis Weapon System equipped with the new SPY-1F radar aboard the Norwegian frigate Fridtjof Nansen (F-310) during the sea trials conducted off the coast of Ferrol, Spain. This marks an important milestone in Integrated Weapon System (IWS) testing for the first of Norway's five new Aegis-equipped frigates.

"At-sea testing of the IWS with the multi-functionality of the SPY-1F clearly represents a significant accomplishment for the Norwegian Navy's frigate program and is a great example of successful international teamwork and industry partnership," said Orlando Carvalho, vice president and general manager at Lockheed Martin Maritime Systems & Sensors' Surface Systems line of business. "The flexibility of Aegis and the cooperation afforded through critical partnerships enable us to continue delivering a world-class system on-schedule and on-budget to multiple naval customers."

The SPY-1F is a modified version of the AN/SPY-1D radar system designed to provide high performance surveillance, detection and tracking, and operate with the Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile and Standard Missile-2. Lockheed Martin is responsible for system integration of all IWS elements -- including sensors, communications and weapons -- for the Fridtjof Nansen class frigates.

"Fridtjof Nansen is performing exceptionally well and sea trials will guarantee that the ship exceeds the requirements," said Angel Recaman, director of Navantia's Fene-Ferrol shipyard.

The Aegis Weapon System includes the SPY-1 radar, the world's most advanced computer-controlled radar system. When paired with the MK 41 Vertical Launching System, it is capable of delivering missiles for every mission and threat environment in naval warfare. The Aegis Weapon System is currently deployed on more than 75 ships around the world, with more than 30 additional ships planned. In addition to the U.S. and Norway, Aegis is the weapon system of choice for Japan, Korea and Spain. Recently, Australia selected the Aegis Weapon System for its Air Warfare Destroyer program.

Headquartered in Bethesda, MD, Lockheed Martin employs about 130,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture and integration of advanced technology systems, products and services.

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SOURCE: Lockheed Martin