The Ministry of Defense on Friday officially announced the appointment of Field Marshal Asim Munir as Pakistan’s Chief of Defense Forces (CDF). His tenure is set for five years following presidential approval on the recommendation of the prime minister.
The formal notification, issued under the Army Act and Article 243 of the Constitution, confirmed that Asim Munir will serve as the highest-ranking officer overseeing all armed forces, ensuring unified command across the military.
In a separate notification, the Ministry also extended the tenure of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu by two years, effective from March 19, 2026, under Article 234 of the Constitution and the Pakistan Air Force Act. Copies of both notifications were circulated to the President, Prime Minister, service chiefs, and relevant institutions.
Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar praised the appointment, stating that the decision strengthens Pakistan’s defense capabilities. He said the unified command under Asim Munir will enhance coordination across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
“Now all our forces operate under a unified command. The enemy, who has already been defeated, will think twice before attempting any aggression,” Tarar said during a briefing at the Parliament House.
The minister also addressed misinformation spreading on social and electronic media regarding the appointments. He emphasized the importance of accurate reporting and responsible commentary during matters of national interest.
“Those who spread rumours about the notification should be ashamed and must apologize to the nation,” Tarar added.
The appointment of Asim Munir marks a historic moment in Pakistan’s military leadership, as he takes charge as the first-ever Chief of Defense Forces while simultaneously serving as Chief of Army Staff. Officials believe this structural change will ensure better coordination, decision-making, and operational efficiency across all branches of Pakistan’s armed forces.
In other news read more about President Approves Asim Munir as COAS and Pakistan’s First Chief of Defence Forces
With Asim Munir at the helm, Pakistan’s defense structure is expected to become more integrated and resilient, providing a stronger deterrent against any potential threats and reinforcing the country’s security framework.
