Indonesian Military Deploys Drones to Prevent Forest Fires in Lampung

Surveillance is not only focused on responding once fires have emerged, but is directed towards efforts to prevent fires from the very beginning.

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The TNI has deployed unmanned aerial vehicles, or thermal drones, to detect new fire hotspots within the forest and land fire (karhutla) disaster zones in the Way Kambas National Park (TNWK) area, East Lampung, on Wednesday.

According to a press release from the TNI Headquarters Press Centre received in Jakarta, the drones were deployed by Kodam XXI/Radin Inten and the TNI Alpha Team.

Kapendam XXI/Radin Inten, Lieutenant Colonel Inf Ranoviandy Chairul, explained in the press release that thermal drones were utilised because they possess infrared technology capable of detecting fire points more effectively.

“Surveillance is not only oriented towards handling fires once they have appeared, but is directed towards efforts to prevent fires from the initial stage,” Ranoviely explained.

As of now, the drones continue to be used for patrolling the forest fire areas. He ensured that the drones will remain deployed until the situation in the location becomes progressively stable.

“Through continuous surveillance and the utilisation of technology, the TNI continues to support forest fire prevention efforts while simultaneously maintaining the conservation of the Way Kambas National Park area,” he said.