Asim Munir Becomes Pakistan’s First Chief of Defence Forces

Pakistan has created a significant new military role, appointing Field Marshal Asim Munir as its first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). This powerful position consolidates command over all three branches of the armed forces: Army, Navy, and Air Force. Munir will also continue to serve as the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), a dual role making him the most influential military figure in the nation. A constitutional amendment has paved the way for this appointment, removing previous retirement age limits for this new role, which is now set for a five-year term with potential for extensions. The President’s office confirmed the approval of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recommendation for Munir to hold both COAS and CDF designations for a period of five years. The CDF will oversee the National Strategic Command, responsible for the country’s nuclear arsenal and missile systems. This move centralizes military command structures, replacing the previously abolished Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC). The appointment follows considerable anticipation regarding the expansion of Munir’s authority within the military framework. Additionally, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu has received a two-year service extension. Field Marshal Munir is now the first officer in Pakistan’s history to simultaneously hold the five-star Field Marshal rank and the combined command of COAS and CDF.