India and Japan agree to fast-track UNICORN deployment, deepen naval shipbuilding ties

Published Aug 21, 01:39 PM UTC

India and Japan have pledged to expedite the deployment of their collaborative Unified Complex Radio Antenna (UNICORN) communications system and intensify joint development in naval shipbuilding, following a bilateral defence meeting on 20 August 2026 in New Delhi. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi described UNICORN as a symbol of deepening defence cooperation. A Memorandum of Implementation for the system was signed in 2024, and the project aims to jointly manufacture the UNICORN mast for Indian naval vessels, enhancing stealth by reducing radar cross-section. The ministers also agreed to explore joint naval ship design and construction, combining Japanese expertise with Indian production capabilities under the 'Make in India' initiative. A new Memorandum of Arrangement on Maritime Security Cooperation was signed to advance information sharing, joint exercises, and logistical support. Additionally, a joint Working Group at senior official level will be established to coordinate defence efforts across operational, intelligence, equipment, and industrial domains.