Field Marshal Munir likely to assume unified Chief of Defence Forces-COAS charge

ISLAMABAD: In one of the most consequential structural reforms in Pakistan’s military hierarchy, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir is likely to assume the unified title of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) alongside his position as Chief of Army Staff (COAS), following the enforcement of the Pakistan Army (Amendment) Bill 2025. The new designation, effective immediately after the notification issued by the government, will appear in all official documents, military communications, and media references.

President Asif Ali Zardari had assented to the Army, Air Force and Navy Amendment Bills on November 15 after their parliamentary approval, paving the way for redefining command arrangements in the armed forces.

Under the amended law, the COAS will concurrently serve as the Chief of Defence Forces for a five-year term, with Field Marshal Munir’s tenure restarting from the date of the new notification.
The legislation stipulates that all provisions of Article 243 applicable to a Field Marshal will now extend to a General elevated to this unified office. It also empowers the federal government—on the CDF’s recommendation—to authorise the vice chief or deputy chief of army staff to exercise COAS powers through written orders.

CDF to assume charge on 27th

A significant structural overhaul included in the bill is the abolition of the post of Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), which has been replaced by the newly created office of Commander, National Strategic Command. The prime minister may appoint the commander from among serving Pakistan Army generals for a three-year term on the COAS/CDF’s advice.

The federal government will also define the CDF’s expanded mandate, encompassing multi-domain integration, jointness across services, restructuring of force capabilities, and other responsibilities aligned with modern warfare demands.

The development came a day after General (retd) Sahir Shamshad Mirza stepped down as Pakistan’s last CJCSC under the 27th Constitutional Amendment, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new command model for the country’s defence establishment.