New Delhi is witnessing a significant boost in India-Japan defence ties, with a focus on joint warship production to enhance maritime power amidst China’s growing naval presence. Recently, Japan transferred its advanced Unified Complex Radio Antenna (UNICORN) mast technology to the Indian Navy, indicating a shift towards collaborative defence production. This development, along with Japan’s relaxed arms exports policy and discussions on co-developing Mogami-class frigates, suggests a promising future for India-Japan security cooperation in shipyards.
According to a report, India is a trusted strategic partner for Japan, with a defence industrial base capable of supporting larger collaborative projects. Access to Japanese technologies will significantly enhance India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities, aligning with the objectives of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s recent visit to India highlighted the need for bilateral defence industrial cooperation.
Joint shipbuilding will create long-term industrial linkages, involving advanced manufacturing, electronics, and artificial intelligence. This cooperation will strengthen both military capability and economic resilience. Japan’s proposal to jointly develop and produce the advanced Mogami-class frigates with India is worthy of serious consideration. The Mogami class represents one of the most modern multi-mission frigates, combining stealth features, automation, and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
Indian shipyards have made significant progress in designing and constructing destroyers, frigates, and offshore patrol vessels. Japan’s expertise in automation and advanced maritime electronics could enhance India’s next-generation naval platforms. This partnership will also benefit Japan, providing greater production scale and supporting the long-term sustainability of its defence industrial base. Strategically, India-Japan shipbuilding cooperation will deepen the regional maritime balance, preserving freedom of navigation and a rules-based maritime order.
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📰 Source: Mangalorean News