In a historic development for Pakistan’s military command, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir, newly appointed as the country’s first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF)], affirmed on Monday that the army, air force and navy will retain their internal autonomy despite functioning under a unified command.
During an address to officers from all three services, reported by state broadcaster PTV News, Field Marshal Munir hailed the establishment of the Defence Forces Headquarters as a “foundational and historic change” aimed at enhancing multi-domain operational capabilities amid evolving regional security challenges.
He stressed that while each service would preserve its organisational identity and operational readiness, the new headquarters would serve as the central body to coordinate, integrate, and synchronise tri-service operations. “The establishment of the Defence Forces Headquarters is an essential step towards this change,” he stated.
Firm Message to India and Afghanistan
Turning to regional security, the CDF issued a strong warning to India, cautioning New Delhi against any “misconceptions” regarding Pakistan’s defensive capabilities. He asserted that Pakistan’s response to any provocation would be “swift and severe”.
Commenting on Afghanistan, Field Marshal Munir said a clear message had been conveyed to the Taliban government, urging it to choose between “khawarij mischief-makers or Pakistan”.
Reiterating Pakistan’s stance as a peace-loving nation, he emphasised that the country’s **territorial integrity and sovereignty** were non-negotiable. “Let everyone know that the idea of Pakistan is invincible,” he declared.
Guard of Honour and Structural Reforms
Earlier in the day, the new CDF received a guard of honour at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, attended by Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Air Chief Zaheer Ahmad Babar.
Field Marshal Munir’s appointment marks the most significant military restructuring since the 1970s. The 27th Constitutional Amendment and subsequent changes to the Pakistan Army Act (PAA) have consolidated operational, administrative and strategic authority under the newly created CDF office, effectively abolishing the role of the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC).
The updated laws also allow the COAS-cum-CDF to be reappointed or have his tenure extended for up to five additional year, enabling Field Marshal Munir to potentially serve until December 2035.
