Jakarta, April 17 -- The Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) has announced plans to intensify the use of drones and unmanned submarines in maritime patrol missions to lower fuel consumption as part of a broader energy efficiency agenda.

TNI AL Chief of Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali explained on April 16 that both types of defence equipment would serve in supporting roles for naval vessels operating across Indonesian waters.

The plan is to prioritise the use of drones, given that they offer high effectiveness and efficiency. Moreover, autonomous submarines will be used to conduct underwater surveillance, he said.

Ali further explained that the use of B50 biodiesel is expected to reduce reliance on crude oil among ships assigned to patrol or transport...