WEB DESK: The title Field Marshal is the highest and only five-star military rank in the Pakistan Army, sitting above the rank of General.
Field Marshal is the highest rank in the military, an honorary position bestowed upon individuals for outstanding service. While there’s no specific term length for a Field Marshal in the same way as for other military ranks, it’s a lifelong position.
The only person to hold this rank in Pakistan’s history was General Ayub Khan, who was promoted to Field Marshal in 1965. He remained in that position until his death. The rank is awarded by the President of Pakistan.Ayub Khan, then the Commander-in-Chief of the Pakistan Army and later the President of Pakistan, himself was elevated to this position in recognition of his ‘military leadership’.
Since then, COAS General Asim Munir has been awarded this rank to acknowledge General Asim Munir’s brilliant military leadership, bravery, and commitment to defending Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the recently held Operation Banyanun Marsoos against India’s Operation Sindoor
It is pertinent to note that the Pakistan Armed Forces successfully defended the motherland and shot down six Indian fighter jets, including three French-made Rafale jets. India has indirectly acknowledged the incident, as a senior Indian Air Force officer stated during a media briefing that “losses are part of war.
According to Pakistan’s constitutional and legal framework: The President of Pakistan is the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.The Prime Minister holds executive powers and is responsible for national governance, including military appointments and policies.The appointment of a Field Marshal is made through a special appeal involving the Prime Minister, President, and Defence Ministry.Despite its prestige, the rank of Field Marshal does not grant extra-constitutional authority.
There is no permanent or recurring mechanism for appointing a Field Marshal in Pakistani law. The rank does not bestow additional legislative, executive, or judicial powers.
