TAG: GS-2: IR & GS-3: INTERNAL SECURITY
CONTEXT: India and Japan have recently signed a Memorandum of Implementation (MOI) for the “co-development” of the UNICORN (Unified Complex Radio Antenna) mast. The Unicorn is a conical structure with antennas to be mounted on top of warships, enhancing their stealth characteristics. It will be installed on Indian Navy warships under the framework of India-Japan Defence Technology Cooperation.
EXPLANATION:
About UNICORN:
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- India and Japan have signed a MOI for the co-development of the UNICORN (Unified Complex Radio Antenna). It is a mast with integrated communication systems that help improve the stealth characteristics of ships.
- The MoI was signed in Tokyo between Indian Envoy Sibi George and Ishikawa Takeshi. This event followed a 2+2 inter-Ministerial dialogue held in August 2024. The dialogue emphasized the early transfer of UNICORN technology and related systems.
- The collaboration involves Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in India, partnering with Japanese defence experts to bring advanced communication technology to Indian naval platforms.
- The UNICORN mast is a conical structure integrating various communication antennas on top of naval warships. This integration aims to improve stealth capabilities by reducing the ship’s radar signature.
- UNICORN masts are advanced integrated masts used in naval vessels to enhance stealth, communication, and sensor capabilities. They are designed to consolidate various radar, communication, and surveillance systems into a compact structure.
- The streamlined structure minimizes the ship’s radar visibility, which is crucial for stealth operations.
- UNICORN masts are built to accommodate state-of-the-art real-time data acquisition and communication technology, which is crucial for modern naval operations.
- Japan has exported the UNICORN NORA-50 Integration Mast, highlighting its utility in stealth and sensor optimization for naval fleets.
- Unlike conventional masts, UNICORN consolidates antennas attached to multiple points on a mast into a single radar dome, known as a redone.
- This innovation significantly reduces the cross-section of naval platforms, thereby enhancing their stealth characteristics and enabling them to operate with reduced electronic signatures.
- In addition, the optimal placement of the antennas improves the maximum detection distance of radio waves emitted from outside and simplifies maintenance and installation processes.
What is MoI?
The MoI marks a historic moment, which represents the first export of defence technology from Japan to India. This follows the bilateral agreement on defence equipment and technology transfer established in 2015. The agreement aims to strengthen military collaboration between the two nations.
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