Indonesia to install radar stations along Malacca Straits to help secure ships

Indonesia's navy said Sunday it plans to install radar stations at nine locations in the pirate-infested Malacca Strait to monitor ships and strengthen security in the world's busiest waterway.

Navy spokesman Adm. Abdul Malik Yusuf did not know when or where the stations would be installed, saying authorities still needed to conduct a survey.

The decision follows an agreement between Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia to strengthen security in the strategic shipping lane, seen by many as a prime target for terrorists. The Southeast Asian nations will start coordinated air patrols over the Malacca Strait next month.

"The nine radars will help monitor the security situation in the waterway," Yusuf said. "These will also be points where crews can report problems like piracy and sea accidents."

Piracy watch officials reported 37 attacks last year in the waterway, which is used by more than 50,000 ships a year, carrying half the world's oil and a third of its commerce, AP reported.