India and Japan have formalized a Memorandum of Implementation (MoI) for the co-development of the Unified Complex Radio Antenna (UNICORN) mast, a conical structure designed to house antennas on naval warships. This innovative system enhances stealth capabilities and will be integrated into Indian Navy vessels under the India-Japan Defence Technology Cooperation framework.
The agreement marks a milestone as the first instance of Japan exporting defence technology, following the bilateral defence equipment and technology transfer agreement signed in 2015. The MoI was signed by Indian Ambassador to Japan Sibi George and Ishikawa Takeshi, Commissioner of Japan’s Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Agency, during a ceremony in Tokyo.
UNICORN, an advanced integrated communication system, consolidates multiple antennas into a single radar dome, or radome, significantly reducing the radar cross-section of warships. This enhances their stealth features and improves the range and efficiency of radio wave detection. Co-development will involve collaboration between Bharat Electronics Limited in India and Japanese partners. This joint venture represents the first case of co-production and co-development of defence equipment between the two nations.
Japan has shown interest in exporting military technology, albeit with stringent restrictions due to its pacifist constitution. While India and Japan had earlier discussed acquiring amphibious planes for the Indian Navy, the high cost and other priorities stalled the deal.
During the 2+2 Inter-Ministerial Dialogue in August 2024, both nations emphasized the early transfer of UNICORN technology and acknowledged advancements in other collaborative projects, including unmanned ground vehicles and robotics. The Japanese Navy’s Mogami-class frigates currently utilize the UNICORN system, which was showcased to Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during his visit to Japan in 2022.
The two countries are also exploring collaborations on ship maintenance and extending defence and security support to third nations to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Key Highlights:
- Significance: This is India’s first military technology transfer pact with Japan, strengthening their strategic partnership.
- About UNICORN: Developed by NEC Corporation, Sampa Kogyo K.K., and The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., UNICORN integrates various antennas into a single radome, enhancing stealth and simplifying maintenance.
- Impact: The technology minimizes electronic signatures, improves detection range, and offers better operational capabilities for naval platforms.
