Why Pakistan overhauled its military command structure after five decades
Summary
Pakistan’s parliament recently passed new laws that officially define the powers of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), a role created last year to oversee the army, navy, and air force. This change replaces the old position of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) and gives the CDF real command power over all military services, aiming to create a clear chain of command.Key Facts
- Pakistan’s National Assembly approved two key laws on August 20, 2026, to formalize the role of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF).
- These laws follow the 27th constitutional amendment passed in November 2025 that created the CDF position.
- The CJCSC position, which was a limited coordinator post since 1976, has been abolished.
- The new CDF role holds operational command over the army, navy, and air force, and reports directly to the federal government.
- Field Marshal Asim Munir currently holds the CDF position and also serves as the army chief.
- The changes are considered the biggest military command overhaul in Pakistan since 1976.
- Pakistan’s military has a long history of direct political influence, including four coups since independence in 1947.
- The new laws aim to formalize powers the army chief often exercised informally, while details about navy and air force roles remain unclear.
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