India and Japan held a fresh edition of "2+2" dialogue amid China's increasing military muscle-flexing in the region.
What is “2+2” dialogue?
The "2+2" dialogue is a high-level diplomatic and strategic meeting format where the Foreign and Defence Ministers of two countries come together to discuss and coordinate on bilateral and regional security issues. This format aims to deepen cooperation on security, defence, and strategic matters, reflecting the importance both countries place on their relationship.
The "2+2" dialogue is part of a select group of high-level strategic consultations that India has with a few countries, including the United States, Australia, and Russia.
Key Highlights of the India-Japan "2+2" Dialogue
The dialogue takes place within the broader framework of a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region, reflecting concerns about China's increasing military assertiveness.
It emphasizes the strategic partnership between India and Japan, which has evolved into a special strategic and global partnership over the past decade.
Strategic Partnership:
The dialogue underscores the deepening of the India-Japan partnership, which is based on shared democratic values and adherence to the rule of law.
Both sides aim to build upon their strategic cooperation to address common challenges and foster a stable and secure Indo-Pacific region.
Defence Cooperation: The discussion highlights the importance of the defence partnership in achieving India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, with a focus on enhancing domestic defence capabilities.
The two countries also reviewed the progress made for the transfer of Japan’s Nora-50 naval antenna, also known as “Unicorn (Unified Complex Radio Antenna)” and related technologies to India for naval warships to detect missile and unmanned aerial platforms.
Once materialised, this will be Japan’s first transfer of a military technology to India under a 2015 agreement.
Bilateral and Regional Impact: The partnership aims to contribute to freedom, inclusivity, and transparency in the Indo-Pacific, crucial for maintaining regional stability.
Fact Box: What is the NORA-50?
The NORA-50 is an advanced communication antenna system developed by Japanese companies.
It is designed for use on naval ships to provide reliable and secure communication in challenging maritime environments.
Key Features:
Stealth Design: The antenna features a bar-shaped dome known as ‘UNICORN’ (UNIted Combined Radio aNtenna) that reduces its radar cross section (RCS), making it stealthy.
Broad Frequency Range: It supports multiple communication bands, which is essential for effective communication over both short and long distances.
Omnidirectional Radiation: The antenna can transmit and receive signals in all directions, allowing ships to maintain communication with multiple stations without needing to reposition the antenna.
Compact and Lightweight: The NORA-50 is smaller and lighter compared to older models, which is important for naval vessels where space and weight are limited.
Durability: Constructed from advanced composite materials, it resists corrosion and withstands harsh maritime conditions.
Automatic Tuning: The system can quickly adjust to different frequencies as needed, adapting to changing communication requirements.
Advanced Filtering: It minimizes interference to ensure clear signal transmission, crucial in busy electromagnetic environments.
Anti-Jamming Features: The antenna includes technology to protect communications from electronic jamming and ensure reliability even in electronic warfare situations.
Current Use:
The NORA-50 is installed on the Mogami-class frigates of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF).
It may also be considered for Japan’s Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) program.