Japan has called on India to fast-track domestic regulatory approvals for the Unified Complex Radio Antenna (UNICORN) naval communications system, aiming to accelerate the first-ever bilateral defence co-development and co-production initiative between Tokyo and New Delhi. The request was emphasized during bilateral discussions in New Delhi between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the early operational execution of the low-observable integrated mast technology.
The UNICORN system (NORA-50) consolidates multiple communication, tactical data link, and sensor antennas into a single streamlined composite mast structure. Currently deployed on the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s Mogami-class frigates, the integrated mast drastically reduces a warship’s radar cross-section (RCS), enhancing stealth, electronic warfare capability, and survivability in contested maritime theaters.
Under the framework established by the Memorandum of Implementation and formal summit agreements, Japanese partners—including NEC Corporation, Sampa Kogyo K.K., and Yokohama Rubber Co.—will provide design and core engineering support. State-owned Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) will serve as the principal Indian industrial partner responsible for local manufacturing, sensor integration, and platform installation across future Indian Navy surface combatants in alignment with Make in India objectives. Parallel talks also established broader maritime security arrangements, including information sharing for Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA), reciprocal ship repair infrastructure, and joint research ventures between India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Japan's Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA)
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