Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has sent a formal summary to the President of Pakistan recommending the appointment of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir as the country’s first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). This historic move is expected to strengthen coordination among Pakistan’s military branches and create a unified leadership structure.
According to official sources, Field Marshal Munir will continue his duties as Chief of Army Staff (COAS) while simultaneously serving as CDF for a five-year term. The position of CDF is designed to oversee joint operations and strategic planning across the army, navy, and air force, ensuring smooth coordination among the armed forces.
The government has also approved a two-year extension for Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, who will continue to lead the Pakistan Air Force beyond his current five-year term, which ends in March 2026. This extension ensures continuity in leadership at the top of the air force during a period of important operational and modernization plans.
Analysts say the appointment of Field Marshal Munir as CDF reflects the government’s effort to strengthen defence planning and joint operational capabilities in a complex regional security environment. It also aligns with modern military structures in other countries, where a unified command helps improve coordination between land, air, and naval forces.
This development has received wide attention both in military circles and among political observers, as it represents a significant structural change in Pakistan’s defence hierarchy. Officials stress that these appointments aim to maintain stability, strategic readiness, and long-term planning across all branches of the armed forces.
The President’s approval is awaited, after which the appointments are expected to take effect immediately, marking a new era in Pakistan’s military leadership.
