India and Japan Enhance Defense Collaboration

On August 20, 2023, India and Japan held their third 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in New Delhi, where they agreed to enhance defense cooperation, including the transfer of Japan's advanced Unified Complex Radio Antenna (UNICORN) for Indian naval ships. This communication antenna, designed to reduce radar signatures and enhance detection capabilities, is a significant step in strengthening military interoperability and defense-industrial collaboration between the two nations. Both countries also committed to joint exercises and further cooperation in space and cybersecurity, addressing regional security concerns related to China. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized India's goal to boost its domestic defense capabilities and the importance of this partnership for peace in the Indo-Pacific. The discussions included future cooperation on ship maintenance at Indian docks and coordination in defense assistance to third countries. This collaboration reflects a shared vision for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.