The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) continued its track record of successfully test firing Raytheon Company's (NYSE: RTN) Patriot Air and Missile Defense System during its annual training exercise at McGregor Range, N.M. The exercise included target engagement and firings of Patriot in stressing tactical mission scenarios.

"The results of this annual exercise speak to the operational readiness of Patriot and the solid collaboration of this dedicated government-industry team," said Sanjay Kapoor, vice president for Integrated Air and Missile Defense at Raytheon's Integrated Defense Systems business.

"Raytheon is committed to its partnership with JASDF, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) and the U.S. Army, working together to ensure that Japan has the most robust air and missile defense capability and training for its forces."

JASDF's Annual Service Practice was held from Sept. 22 through Nov. 3, with approximately 380 JASDF personnel participating. The exercise included a VIP visit and viewing by Japan Commander of the Northern Air Defense Forces and the Defense and Air Attache from the Embassy of Japan in Washington, D.C.

Japan is one of 12 nations that have selected the combat-proven Patriot as a key component of their air and missile defense program.

Raytheon is the prime contractor for both domestic and international Patriot Air and Missile Defense Systems and system integrator for Patriot Advanced Capability-3 missiles. MHI is the prime contractor for Patriot in Japan and manufactures the Guidance Enhanced Missile and related ground equipment for Japan under a license agreement with Raytheon.