India & Japan Sign Defence Cooperation MoI

On 15th November 2024, India and Japan signed a Memorandum of Implementation (MoI) to co-develop the UNICORN (Unified Complex Radio Antenna) mast, enhancing the stealth capabilities of Indian Naval warships under their Defence Technology Cooperation framework.

Key Points

UNICORN Mast Technology: The mast integrates advanced communication systems, boosting the stealth characteristics of naval platforms.
Significance of the Agreement: This marks Japan’s first export of defence technology under the 2015 bilateral defence equipment and technology transfer pact.
Historic Collaboration: The MoI represents the first co-development and co-production of defence equipment between the two nations.
Background and Progress: Discussions on UNICORN technology were highlighted during the August 2024 2+2 inter-ministerial dialogue.
Strategic Importance: The agreement aligns with broader India-Japan defence partnerships aimed at ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific, and exploring further cooperation in ship maintenance and security assistance to third countries.