Analyst: Defence Ministry-TNI Fuel Efficiency Reflects Signal of Strategic Caution

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The policy of fuel efficiency in the environment of the Ministry of Defence (Kemhan) and the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) is seen as part of the state’s strategy of caution in responding to global uncertainties, while maintaining a balanced defence posture that remains proportional.

“There is a political meaning to it. In this case, of course, it’s the politics of the state, not practical politics. Namely, a signal of strategic caution,” said political and military analyst from Universitas Nasional (UNAS), Selamat Ginting, when contacted on Tuesday (24/3/2026).

“Especially, of course, due to the conflict in the Middle East and also fluctuations in energy prices as well as supply chain disruptions. So this is truly a message that the state is choosing a strategy of caution, not reactive or aggressive,” he explained.

He assessed that this efficiency policy can also be read as a form of political signalling to the public that the defence sector is not immune to fiscal discipline.

“What does that mean? There is an effort to maintain political legitimacy amid economic pressures. Such as the rise in energy prices that can have a broad impact on society,” said Selamat.

He also opined that there is an external political meaning in the geopolitical context, where fuel efficiency can be interpreted as an effort to maintain a low-profile posture for Indonesia amid global dynamics.

“So a posture that truly does not want to stand out, becoming truly low-profile. Indonesia does not want to appear to be increasing combat readiness,” he explained.

According to him, such an attitude is important amid global rivalries, as Indonesia wants to demonstrate consistency with its free and active foreign policy.