In a testament to his exemplary leadership during “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos,” a significant military action launched against India’s unprovoked aggression earlier this month, the federal government has elevated Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir to the prestigious rank of Field Marshal.
This recent military confrontation between Pakistan and India ensued after last month’s attack on tourists in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir’s (IIOJK) Pahalgam.
A statement released following a federal cabinet meeting, presided over by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, declared, “The Government of Pakistan has sanctioned the promotion of General Syed Asim Munir (Nishan-i-Imtiaz Military) to the rank of Field Marshal in recognition of his unwavering commitment to national security and his successful defeat of the adversary through high strategic acumen and courageous leadership during Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos.”
Understanding the Rank of Field Marshal
A Field Marshal represents the pinnacle of honorary military ranks within a nation’s army, typically a five-star designation, surpassing the rank of General.
This rank usually does not entail direct operational command but is conferred as an acknowledgment of extraordinary military leadership, strategic brilliance, and substantial contributions to national defense. Despite its immense prestige, the rank of Field Marshal does not grant any additional constitutional authority.
COAS General Munir is only the second individual in Pakistan’s history to be bestowed with the rank of Field Marshal. The sole prior recipient was Mohammad Ayub Khan, a former President of Pakistan, who received this distinguished title in 1959.
Details of Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos
Pakistan’s armed forces initiated a comprehensive retaliatory military operation, named “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos,” targeting multiple Indian military objectives across various regions.
Officials characterized these strikes as “precise and proportionate,” executed in response to India’s persistent aggression along the Line of Control (LoC) and within Pakistani territory, which New Delhi claimed were directed at “terrorist targets.”
During the conflict, Pakistan successfully downed six Indian fighter jets, including three Rafales, and scores of drones. After an intense period of at least 87 hours, the war, instigated by India, concluded on May 10 with a ceasefire agreement brokered by the United States.
According to the ISPR, a total of 53 individuals, comprising 13 armed forces personnel and 40 civilians, tragically lost their lives in Indian strikes during this recent military engagement.
General Asim Munir: A Brief Overview
COAS General Asim Munir commenced his military career in the Pakistan Army through the Mangala Officers Training School program, subsequently earning a commission in the Frontier Force Regiment.
He commanded the Northern Areas Force as a brigadier and was appointed Director-General of Military Intelligence in early 2017. In 2018, he assumed the role of Director-General of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
Following these appointments, he served as Corps Commander Gujranwala for two years. He also held the position of Quarter Master at the General Headquarters (GHQ).
In November 2022, General Munir was appointed as the Chief of the Army Staff.
He holds the unique distinction of being the only army chief to have led both the Military Intelligence (MI) and the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Furthermore, General Munir is the first army chief to have been awarded the prestigious “Sword of Honour.”
