Latest news with #UNICORN
Japan Forward
06-08-2025
- Business
- Japan Forward
Japan, India Security Cooperation Rises Across the Board
The Indo-Pacific region is at a critical juncture where technological superiority increasingly determines strategic outcomes. Against this backdrop, Japan and India are breaking through decades of constraints and traditional defense partnerships to forge an unprecedented high-technology military collaboration. This evolving relationship transcends conventional arms trade. It represents a fundamental reimagining of how two major democracies can jointly develop, produce, and deploy cutting-edge defense systems that will shape regional security architectures for generations. The recent agreement on Unification Complex Radio Antenna masts technology, known as UNICORN, marks a watershed moment. This stealth-enhancing radar system, co-developed by Japan's NEC Corporation, with Bharat Electronics Limited, represents the first instance of defense equipment co-production between the two nations. More significantly, it signals Japan's willingness to share its most advanced military technologies with India. It is a privilege extended to only one other nation in Asia, the Philippines. The significance of this breakthrough cannot be overstated. Japan's decision to share this advanced stealth technology, currently deployed on its cutting-edge Mogami-class frigates, positions India as only the second Asian nation, after the Philippines, to receive such high-grade defense equipment from Tokyo. This selective technology transfer underscores the strategic trust between the two nations. Moreover, it demonstrates Japan's recognition of India as a critical partner in maintaining Indo-Pacific stability. Vice Minister Funakoshi meets his counterpart Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in Delhi on July 28. (©Ministry of Foreign Affairs.) Japan's transformation from a strictly pacifist nation to an active defense technology partner has been gradual but decisive. The 2014 revision of the defense export policies under the foresighted Prime Minister Shinzo Abe initiated this shift. But the March 2024 amendment to the "Three Principles for Transfer of Equipment and Technology" represents a quantum leap. These changes reflect Tokyo's evolving strategic calculus in response to what Defense Minister Gen Nakatani describes as "rapidly changing and increasingly uncertain regional and international circumstances." The institutional framework supporting this cooperation has matured significantly. In May 2025, the Japan-India Defense Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific regional framework was established. It provides a structured mechanism for managing bilateral defense initiatives from a "comprehensive and integrated perspective." This builds upon earlier milestones, including the 2015 Agreements on Defense Equipment and Technology Cooperation, the 2021 Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement, and the regular 2+2 ministerial dialogues that have deepened strategic convergence. Beyond radar systems, the potential for collaboration extends through the entire spectrum of advanced military technologies. Japan's expertise in submarine technology presents immense opportunities. The Soryu-class submarines, featuring revolutionary lithium-ion battery propulsion systems, are the pinnacle of conventional submarine technology. These 4,200-ton vessels offer unmatched stealth and endurance capabilities, surpassing both the French Scorpene submarines currently being built in India and the German Type 214. Japan's earlier reluctance to participate in India's P-75(1) submarine program stemmed from complex technology transfer requirements and procedural challenges. However, the evolving strategic environment and liberalized export policies have reopened possibilities for future collaboration. On March 8, the JGSDF and Indian Army conducted a closing ceremony in Dharma Guardian 23, further deepening the bond between JGSDF and Indian Army.(©X on @JGSDF_pr) The aerospace domain offers equally transformative potential. During recent meetings, Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh specifically highlighted his country's capabilities and interest in collaborating on tank engines and aero engines. Japan possesses significant expertise in both areas. Also, Japanese companies have developed advanced materials, aero-structural technologies, and propulsion systems that could accelerate India's indigenous defense programs. Meanwhile, they also create synergies with Japan's own modernization efforts. Maritime security cooperation has already shown impressive progress through regular bilateral exercises. For example, the Japan-India Maritime Exercises known as JIMEX have evolved from basic interoperability drills to complex multi-dimensional operations. The annual Dharma Guardian exercises have enhanced army-to-army cooperation, while Veer Guardian and Shinyu Maitri have strengthened air force partnerships. These exercises build the human and operational foundations essential for deeper technological collaboration. The business-to-business dimension adds another layer of sophistication to this partnership. Regular forums bringing together defense industries from both nations have identified specific areas for collaboration. These range from component manufacturing to systems integration. The involvement of Japanese Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in India's defense production ecosystem could revolutionize supply chain resilience while supporting India's "Make in India "objectives. Yet this partnership faces real challenges that require careful focus. Japan's concerns about technology security, particularly given India's continued defense relationships with Russia, create understandable friction. The presence of Russian-origin equipment in India's arsenal, including the S-400 air defense system, raises legitimate questions about operational security for sensitive technologies. Japanese defense officials have expressed concerns about potential intellectual property theft and maintaining a strategic advantage. Foreign ministers of the Quad countries meet in Washington to discuss regional security. (©Ministry of Foreign Affairs) The strategic logic driving this partnership, however, appears compelling enough to overcome these obstacles. Both nations face similar challenges in maintaining strategic autonomy while modernizing their defense capabilities. Neither wants excessive dependence on any single technology provider, whether Western or Russian. (Though some Japanese may not officially share the same view as this writer). Japan possesses advanced technologies and manufacturing precision. However, it seeks to expand its defense industrial base and share development costs. India offers a large market, growing technological capabilities, and strategic depth in the Indian Ocean region. The Japan-India high tech defense partnership embodies a vision for an indigenous Indo-Pacific security architecture built on shared democratic values and mutual strategic interests. This partnership offers both nations a pathway to advanced capabilities while maintaining strategic autonomy. The UNICORN masts agreement may be just the beginning, but it signals a transformation that could redefine regional security dynamics for decades to come. Author: Pema Gyalpo, PhD Dr Pema Gyalpo is a Visiting Professor at the Takushoku University Center for Indo-Pacific Strategic Studies.
The Sun
13-07-2025
- The Sun
New twist in mystery of ‘UNICORN' skull found near King Arthur's castle as officials warn it was removed ILLEGALLY
A 'UNICORN' skull found near King Arthur's castle was removed illegally, officials warned. The Sun told how the mysterious fake object was spotted by Canadian tourist John Goodwin, 46, in Cornwall last weekend. 2 But now it has emerged the skull was taken from a Site of Specific Scientific Interest — at St Nectan's Glen in Tintagel. Anyone removing items from an SSSI can be fined or imprisoned. Zooarchaeologists from Historic England last night said the skull belonged to a horse — but it had a cow's horn attached. It said: 'It does look very well made.' John traded it for beer at a pub and is now on holiday in Greece before flying home. A barman at the Stonehenge Inn, Wilts, is looking after the skull. The manager said: 'He took it home, it was freaking me out here. 'I'm sure he'll happily to return it." Mysterious 'UNICORN' skull found near King Arthur's castle 2
Hans India
07-07-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
Japanese Coast Guard ship arrives in Chennai on six-day goodwill visit
New Delhi: The Japan Coast Guard (JCG) Academy training ship Itsukushima arrived in Chennai on a six-day goodwill visit that aims at further consolidating the deep-rooted maritime cooperation and friendship between both countries. As it made the port call, the Japanese ship - currently on a three-month deep sea training voyage with new JCG officer candidates - was given a warm ceremonial welcome by the NCC cadets and the Indian Army Band, marking the spirit of Indo-Japan maritime friendship. Strengthening regional ties through training and cultural exchange during its global maritime voyage, the ship - carrying 53 cadets onboard - will be in Chennai till July 12. "The visit includes joint training exercises, cultural exchanges, and high-level interactions with ICG, reaffirming the deep rooted maritime cooperation and friendship between India and Japan. Four ICG officers will embark onboard Istukushima for onward passage to Singapore, continuing spirit of professional exchanges and operational understanding. This engagement underscores the shared commitment to regional security and harmony under the vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region)," the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) posted on X on Monday. In May, San Francisco was the very first stop on Itsukushima maiden voyage as the successor to Kojima, which retired last year after three decades of service. Last month, during their meeting in Canada's Kananaskis on the sidelines of the G7 Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Japanese counterpart Shigeru Ishiba vowed to further strengthen bilateral ties across various sectors. During his meeting with Japanese Minister of Defence General Nakatani held on the sidelines of the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) forum in November 2024, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had hailed the increasing cooperation and collaboration between the two countries while recalling the "milestone event" of signing of the Memorandum of Implementation for transfer of the Unified Complex Radio Antenna (UNICORN) in Tokyo on November 15. The UNICORN is a mast with Integrated Communication systems which will help improve the stealth characteristics of Naval Platforms. The Indian Navy is pursuing the induction of these advanced systems which will be co-developed by Bharat Electronics Limited in India with Japanese collaboration. When implemented, this would be the first case of co-development/co-production of Defence Equipment between India and Japan. In their meeting, both defence ministers reiterated the importance of defence industry and technology cooperation between the two countries while agreeing on enhanced cooperation in co-production and co-development in the defence manufacturing sector. "The two ministers affirmed the importance of multilateral defence cooperation and exchanges in the security environment which is growing its severeness, and concurred on working together widely with countries which share fundamental values such as democracy and the rule of law," read a statement issued by the Japanese Defence Ministry after the meeting. "The two ministers concurred on developing defence cooperation and exchanges to continue deepening further bilateral relationship, and sending messages that unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion cannot be tolerated," it added. According to the Indian Defence Ministry, both ministers also discussed the Reciprocal Provision of Supply and Services Agreement between the two countries and participation of militaries in various bilateral and multilateral exercises to further improve interoperability between the Indian and Japanese forces. As they reaffirmed that India-Japan partnership is pivotal in fostering a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region, both ministers also agreed to explore new areas of cooperation in the air domain.
Arab Times
12-05-2025
- Health
- Arab Times
Kuwait medical team performs pioneering aortic valve replacement on 80-year-old patient
KUWAIT CITY, May 12: A national medical team has successfully conducted an aortic valve replacement surgery for a Kuwaiti patient in her eighties, utilizing the BASILICA and UNICORN techniques through catheterization, eliminating the need for open-heart surgery. The procedure was carried out at the Salman Al-Dubous Cardiac Center under the supervision of Dr. Al-Tayeb Al-Qallaf, a consultant in cardiology and catheterization. Dr. Al-Qallaf stated in a press conference on Sunday that this achievement represents a significant step forward in providing specialized care to heart patients, especially those with a history of previous surgeries. The surgery lasted for approximately nine hours and involved a combination of the BASILICA and UNICORN techniques, reflecting both the advanced development of healthcare services in Kuwait and the country's ability to implement cutting-edge medical procedures. "This case highlights that it is possible to offer safe and effective alternatives for patients at high surgical risk," Dr. Al-Qallaf explained. The patient, who had undergone an aortic valve replacement in 2019, began experiencing symptoms of valve failure. Due to the risks associated with traditional surgical valve replacement, which could result in up to 100 percent coronary artery blockage, the medical team opted for a less invasive intervention. Given the patient's age and overall health condition, traditional surgery was deemed too risky. As a result, the team turned to a precise technical intervention through interventional catheterization (TAVR), utilizing the latest medical advancements in the field. The BASILICA technique, used in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), aims to avoid coronary artery blockage by precisely incising the leaflet of the original or previously implanted valve with an electric current. This allows blood to flow to the coronary arteries after the new valve is inserted, preventing blockage caused by the valve's location or structure. The UNICORN technology was also used to modify or remove tissue that might obstruct coronary artery flow. This complementary technique is especially beneficial in complex cases, offering additional protection to coronary pathways when BASILICA alone may not suffice. Dr. Al-Qallaf emphasized that this success is a result of strong collaboration among national specialists from various medical fields. He highlighted the importance of investing in local expertise and creating a supportive environment that fosters excellence and leadership within Kuwait's healthcare sector. This groundbreaking procedure at the Salman Al-Dubous Cardiac Center marks a significant milestone in the advancement of cardiac care in Kuwait, reinforcing the country's position as a regional leader in medical innovation.
Hans India
04-05-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Rajnath Singh to discuss defence ties with Japanese counterpart tomorrow
Discussions to deepen bilateral defence cooperation will top the agenda during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's meeting with his Japanese counterpart Gen Nakatani here on Monday, an official said. Given that defence and security are important pillars of the ties between the two countries, both sides are expected to exchange views and ideas on the current regional and international security situation and improve cooperation, he said. India and Japan share a long-term friendship, which has further gained qualitative momentum after the elevation of this collaboration to Special Strategic and Global Partnership in 2014. Defence exchanges between India and Japan have gained strength in recent years due to the growing convergence on strategic matters. Its significance is increasing from the common outlook on issues of peace, security and stability of the Indo-Pacific Region. This will be the second meeting between the two Defence Ministers within six months after their maiden interaction in November 2024 on the sidelines of ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus at Lao PDR, said a statement. Rajnath Singh met his Japan counterpart Gen Nakatani and Secretary of National Defence (Defence Minister) of the Philippines Gilberto Teodoro on the final day of his three-day visit to Vientiane, Lao PDR. The two sides reiterated the importance of defence industry and technology cooperation between the two countries. Recalling the milestone event of signing of Memorandum of Implementation of UNICORN mast in Japan a week earlier, both sides agreed for enhanced cooperation in co-production and co-development in the defence manufacturing sector. To further improve inter-operability between the Indian and Japanese forces, Reciprocal Provision of Supply and Services Agreement between the two countries and participation of militaries in various bilateral and multilateral exercises were discussed by both the Ministers. They also agreed to explore new areas of cooperation in the air domain. Earlier, a Memorandum of Implementation was signed at the Embassy of India, Tokyo on November 15, 2024 between India and Japan, for co-development of Unified Complex Radio Antenna (UNICORN) mast for fitment onboard ships of Indian Navy. The MOI was signed and exchanged between the Ambassador of India to Japan, Sibi George and Ishikawa Takeshi, Commissioner of Acquisition Technology and Logistics Agency (ATLA) under Japan MoD in a ceremony at Tokyo. The Unified Complex Radio Antenna (UNICORN) is a mast with Integrated Communication systems which will help improve the stealth characteristics of Naval platforms. The Indian Navy is pursuing the induction of these advanced systems which will be co-developed by Bharat Electronics Limited in India with Japanese collaboration. When implemented, this would be the first case of co-development of defence equipment between India and Japan.
