India and Japan are moving forward with a new phase of maritime cooperation, placing particular emphasis on warship building, mine countermeasures and ship repair facilities.

The discussions between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Japanese counterpart Shinjiro Koizumi in New Delhi underscored the shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Singh welcomed Japan’s recent review of its framework for defence equipment and technology transfer. He expressed confidence that this would pave the way for future joint projects, particularly in naval shipbuilding and advanced maritime systems.

During the visit, which also included a tour of naval facilities in Mumbai, the two sides signed a Memorandum of Arrangement on Maritime Security Cooperation. The agreement provides a structured framework for advancing cooperation between the Indian Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.

The memorandum covers enhanced information sharing in Maritime Domain Awareness, as well as expanded collaboration in Search and Rescue and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief. Both nations view these areas as critical to ensuring maritime safety and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

On technical cooperation, the two sides agreed to maximise synergies in mine countermeasures. They also explored opportunities for joint development in naval shipbuilding and design, combining Japan’s advanced technological expertise with India’s large-scale production capabilities.

Officials highlighted the idea of integrating Japan’s design strengths with India’s cost-effective manufacturing base. This synergy could lead to the creation of naval platforms suitable for both nations and potentially for export to friendly countries.

Progress is also expected in reciprocal ship repair facilities. This would allow Indian and Japanese warships to access each other’s dockyards, enhancing operational readiness and reducing logistical challenges.

To advance these initiatives, a working group will be established, headed by a director general or joint secretary-level official. The group will oversee cooperation across operational, intelligence, equipment, technology and industrial domains.

A defence industry forum is also planned, which will bring together stakeholders from both nations to deepen industrial collaboration and accelerate joint projects.

On the geopolitical front, both sides expressed strong opposition to unilateral actions that threaten freedom of navigation and overflight. They also rejected attempts to alter the status quo through force or coercion, signalling a united stance against destabilising activities in the region.

This convergence of interests reflects a broader strategic alignment between India and Japan. By combining design innovation with manufacturing scale, both nations aim to strengthen their maritime capabilities while contributing to regional stability.

Agencies