Indian Navy Updates

India and Japan sign agreement for UNICORN masts for naval warships

Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates
Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: UNICORN Mast

Why in the News?

India and Japan have signed a Memorandum of Implementation (MoI) for the co-development and co-production of the UNICORN (Unified Complex Radio Antenna) mast for Indian Naval warships.

What is the UNICORN Mast?

  • The UNICORN Mast is an advanced antenna system designed to enhance the stealth and operational capabilities of naval warships.
  • It was developed through collaboration between three Japanese companies: NEC Corporation, Sampa Kogyo K.K., and The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd.
  • It will be co-developed in India by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).
  • It consolidates multiple antennas, typically attached separately to a mast, into a single radar dome (radome).
  • By reducing the cross-sectional visibility of the mast, UNICORN significantly minimizes the electronic signatures of warships, making them harder to detect.
  • This technology is already in use on Mogami-class frigates in the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force.

Objectives behind the Mission:

  • Enhance Naval Stealth: Improve stealth by reducing electronic and radar signatures.
  • Strengthen Defence Ties: Foster India-Japan collaboration in co-developing advanced defence systems.
  • Increase Operational Efficiency: Improve radar and communication for better detection and readiness.
  • Promote Indigenous Development: Support India’s self-reliance in defence tech with BEL involvement.

Significance of this Mission:

  • Japan’s first defence tech export to India under the 2015 agreement.
  • Equips Indian Navy warships with advanced stealth technology.
  • Enhances regional maritime security and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific.
  • Promotes technology sharing and innovation in India’s defence sector, boosting indigenous production.

PYQ:

[2016] Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?

(a) Amphibious warfare ship
(b) Nuclear-powered submarine
(c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
(d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier

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