New industrial cooperation to support US Navy’s operations in Japan

February 27, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

Japanese manufacturer Sumitomo Heavy Industries and IMIA, an operating company of ARMADA, have signed an alliance agreement, launching a strategic partnership to support US Navy operations in Japan and surrounding regions.

USS San Diego (LPD 22) visits Ishigaki; Credit: US Navy

As informed, the signing ceremony was held at Sumitomo Heavy Industries’ headquarters building, Sumitomo Kaikan, in Tokyo.

Under the agreement, SHI will serve as prime contractor in Japan where applicable, with IMIA providing specialized personnel, technical expertise, and operational support to enhance speed and readiness for mission-critical maintenance activities.

Through this agreement, IMIA also leverages the full resources and support of its parent company, ARMADA, which is majority-owned by Carlyle and Stellex Capital Management, and provides integrated, mission-critical solutions across its national footprint of operating companies.

“This partnership is not just about signing an agreement. It is about beginning a shared mission,” said Koichi Miyajima, President of Sumitomo Heavy Industries Marine & Engineering Co., Ltd., during the ceremony.

“By combining SHI’s local execution strength in Japan with IMIA’s proven operational experience, we are creating a team focused on readiness, speed, and quality for the U.S. Navy’s Seventh Fleet.”

“Together with Sumitomo Heavy Industries, we are aligning complementary strengths to support the readiness of the U.S. Navy Seventh Fleet here in Japan, where speed, reliability, and uncompromising standards are essential,” said Yehuda Chakoff, Chief Executive Officer of ARMADA.

The alliance is designed to address the realities of forward-deployed naval operations in the Pacific theater, where maintenance timelines are compressed and operational demands are high.

A key focus of the partnership is improving readiness under real-world conditions, including rapid response to unplanned maintenance and battle damage scenarios.

The agreement also reflects the broader significance of US–Japan industrial cooperation. By working side by side, including engineers, planners, technicians, and leaders, SHI and IMIA aim to strengthen interoperability, localize capabilities, and continuously improve their support to forward-deployed naval forces.