Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Tokyo will mark a significant milestone in India-Japan defence and strategic collaboration, with both nations poised to elevate their 2008 Declaration on Security Cooperation. This upgrade is expected to accelerate progress in joint military exercises, policy dialogues, and critical technology transfers, reinforcing their shared commitment to Indo-Pacific stability.
A Joint Statement and Vision Statement are anticipated to be issued during the visit, alongside the launch of a new mobility partnership. Semiconductor collaboration will also take centre stage, with Modi scheduled to visit semiconductor facilities, underscoring the growing importance of this sector in bilateral ties.
The deepening of India-Japan defence cooperation has been driven by high-level engagements, including the Joint Working Group on Defence Equipment and Technology Cooperation (JWG-DETC). This partnership is rooted in a shared strategic vision, with both nations prioritising peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region.
Earlier this year, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh engaged in discussions with his Japanese counterpart, General Nakatani, highlighting India’s defence industry capabilities and potential areas of collaboration, such as tank engine development. The signing of a memorandum of implementation last year for the co-development of the UNICORN (Unified Complex Radio Antenna) mast for the Indian Navy stands as a testament to this growing partnership. Developed by Bharat Electronics Limited with Japanese expertise, UNICORN integrates advanced communication systems to enhance the stealth capabilities of naval platforms.
This collaboration marks a historic first for India-Japan defence co-development, with Japan traditionally cautious about defence exports due to its World War II legacy. The UNICORN project makes India the second Asian nation, after the Philippines, to receive Japanese defence technology. Additionally, Quad partner Australia is set to upgrade its navy with 11 Mogami-class frigates from Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, a $6 billion (Aus$10 billion) investment over the next decade.
As both nations continue to strengthen their defence and security ties, this visit is poised to set a new precedent for Indo-Pacific cooperation, with far-reaching implications for regional stability and technological advancement.