(Written By: Abdul Basit Alvi)
Throughout Pakistan’s history, the Pakistan Army has earned commendation for its acts of bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to the nation. From the challenging terrains of the Himalayas to the bustling urban landscapes, the army’s invaluable contributions have impacted millions and left an enduring impression on Pakistani society.
Since its establishment, the Pakistan Army has stood as a steadfast guardian of the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. From defending against border incursions to combating cross-border terrorism, the army’s vigilance has shielded Pakistan from external threats. In times of natural disasters like earthquakes and floods, the army has been at the forefront of relief efforts, demonstrating swift responsiveness and a commitment to aiding affected communities.
Pakistan has long grappled with the menace of terrorism, with extremist groups posing significant challenges to security and stability. Through operations like Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad, the Pakistan Army has played a pivotal role in dismantling terrorist networks and restoring peace to troubled regions, often at great personal sacrifice.
Beyond its defense duties, the Pakistan Army actively contributes to nation-building and development. Through infrastructure projects, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities, the army has bolstered socio-economic progress and improved the quality of life for many. Its participation in UN peacekeeping missions has earned global recognition for professionalism and dedication to peacekeeping efforts.
The Pakistan Army’s medical corps provides essential healthcare services to both military personnel and civilians, particularly in remote areas and during emergencies. Additionally, its network of educational institutions not only serves military families but also extends its benefits to the broader community, promoting youth empowerment and human capital development.
These examples represent just a fraction of the Pakistan Army’s vast contributions to the nation and its people. As Pakistan faces contemporary challenges, the army remains resolute in safeguarding the country’s future and upholding its core values of unity, faith, and discipline.
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With a rich history of strategic planning, modernization, and operational capabilities, Pakistan’s military strength encompasses various indicators that underscore its preparedness and resilience on the global stage. Indeed, the backbone of any military force lies in its personnel. Pakistan possesses a substantial active-duty force encompassing personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force. According to recent data, Pakistan’s active-duty military personnel number approximately 650,000, placing it among the largest military forces globally. Alongside its active-duty members, Pakistan maintains a considerable reserve force to enhance its operational capabilities during periods of crisis. This reserve comprises trained individuals capable of swift mobilization to assist the active-duty military in defense and security endeavors. Estimates indicate that Pakistan’s reserve force comprises around 500,000 personnel.
The Pakistan Army stands as the primary branch of the nation’s military, boasting a diverse range of infantry, armored, artillery, and support units. Its strength lies not only in its substantial size but also in its extensive combat experience and operational preparedness. With its active-duty personnel, the Pakistan Army is well-prepared to safeguard the nation’s borders and maintain internal security. The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) possesses an impressive array of modern combat aircraft, comprising fighter jets, transport planes, and helicopters. Emphasizing air superiority and precision strike capabilities, the PAF plays a pivotal role in protecting Pakistan’s airspace and projecting influence throughout the region. Its fleet comprises advanced platforms like the F-16 Fighting Falcons, JF-17 Thunder, and Mirage aircraft.
Pakistan’s maritime strength rests with the Pakistan Navy, which operates a diverse fleet of surface vessels, submarines, and maritime patrol aircraft. Prioritizing maritime security, sea control, and power projection, the Pakistan Navy is instrumental in safeguarding coastal waters, securing vital sea routes, and executing maritime missions. Its fleet includes frigates, corvettes, submarines, and patrol craft equipped with modern sensor and weapon systems.
Pakistan maintains a credible nuclear deterrent capability, a cornerstone of its national security strategy. With established nuclear weapons capability and robust command and control infrastructure, Pakistan’s nuclear deterrent aims to deter aggression and ensure national survival in the face of existential threats.
Defense spending receives significant allocation from Pakistan’s national budget, underscoring
the nation’s commitment to maintaining a potent military force. While specific figures may fluctuate annually, defense expenditure typically constitutes a notable percentage of the GDP, reflecting Pakistan’s dedication to national security.
Across its rich history, the Pakistan Army has confronted numerous challenges, displaying unparalleled courage, resilience, and resolve on the battlefield. From the nation’s inception to contemporary conflicts, the army’s notable wars and engagements attest to its steadfast commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and advancing its national interests.
Following the partition of British India in 1947, Pakistan faced violent riots and territorial disputes. The Pakistan Army swiftly became embroiled in conflict with India over the disputed regions of Jammu and Kashmir. Despite facing numerically superior forces, the army’s valor and determination during the Indo-Pak wars of 1947-48, 1965, and 1971 are enshrined in military history. These conflicts tested the army’s mettle and demonstrated its capability to defend Pakistan’s borders against formidable adversaries. The Kargil conflict, or Kargil War, erupted in 1999 was followed by fierce confrontation between Indian and Pakistani forces, resulting in significant casualties on both sides. The Pakistan Army’s participation in the conflict underscored its strategic capabilities and determination to challenge Indian dominance in the region, albeit with substantial losses.
In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in the United States, Pakistan emerged as a crucial ally in the global war on terror. The Pakistan Army initiated a series of military operations against Taliban and Al-Qaeda militants operating in the tribal areas along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. Operations like Operation Zarb-e-Azb and Operation Radd-ul-Fasaad were launched to eradicate terrorism and restore peace and stability to the region. Despite encountering considerable challenges and making significant sacrifices, the army’s efforts in combating extremism and insurgency have garnered international acclaim.
The Siachen conflict, often referred to as the world’s highest battlefield, commenced in 1984. Since then, both nations have upheld a military presence in the harsh terrain, enduring extreme weather conditions and altitude-related illnesses. The Pakistan Army’s resilience and determination in safeguarding Pakistan’s interests in the Siachen region serve as a testament to its commitment to national defense, notwithstanding the human and financial toll.
Apart from its involvement in conventional warfare, the Pakistan Army has played a significant role in international peacekeeping endeavors sanctioned by the United Nations. Pakistani peacekeepers have been deployed to various conflict zones worldwide, including Bosnia, Somalia, Congo, and Haiti, earning recognition for their professionalism, impartiality, and dedication to maintaining peace and security.
The Pakistan Army represents a bastion of strength and perseverance, fortified by decades of strategic development and an unyielding dedication to protecting the nation’s sovereignty. Faced with adversaries, whether conventional or asymmetric, the Pakistan Army’s strengths serve as steadfast defenses, ensuring the safety of the country and its citizens.
At the heart of the Pakistan Army lies a culture of professionalism and discipline. Through rigorous training, adherence to military protocols, and a commitment to excellence, these values are deeply ingrained within its ranks, fostering a cohesive and efficient force capable of swiftly adapting to evolving threats.
The Pakistan Army possesses a wealth of combat experience gained from various conflicts and peacekeeping missions. Whether combating terrorism, engaging along the Line of Control (LoC), or participating in international peacekeeping efforts, each encounter has sharpened the Army’s tactical skills and resilience.
Pakistan’s strategic geographical location, positioned at the nexus of South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East, confers significant importance upon its armed forces. This positioning enables the Pakistan Army to rapidly respond to regional threats and project power effectively, ensuring deterrence against potential adversaries.
Recognizing the critical role of technological superiority in modern warfare, the Pakistan Army has prioritized the modernization of its arsenal. Investments in domestic defense production, acquisition of advanced weaponry, and the development of cyber and electronic warfare capabilities have enhanced its combat readiness.
In addition to conventional warfare capabilities, the Pakistan Army excels in asymmetric warfare strategies. Its proficiency in counterinsurgency operations, counterterrorism tactics, and hybrid warfare techniques enables it to effectively neutralize threats posed by non-state actors and proxy elements. Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities stand as a formidable deterrent against aggression from adversaries. The Army’s responsibility for securing and maintaining the credibility of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal emphasizes its dedication to preserving strategic stability in the region.
A resilient logistics and supply chain infrastructure form the backbone of the Pakistan Army’s operational effectiveness. Well-managed supply lines, strategic stockpiling, and maintenance facilities ensure sustained combat readiness even in demanding conditions.
The Pakistan Army draws strength from a legacy of strong leadership and institutional cohesion. From high-ranking officials to frontline commanders, a shared sense of purpose and camaraderie pervades the ranks, fostering unity of effort and resilience in challenging circumstances.
Ultimately, the Pakistan Army’s paramount strength lies in its steadfast commitment to safeguarding the nation’s security and territorial integrity. Whether facing external threats or addressing internal challenges, the Army remains resolute in its duty to safeguard Pakistan and its populace. It’s heartening to witness the Pakistan Army emerge as a symbol of honor and dignity for the nation and a symbol of deterrence for its adversaries.
According to the World Military Strength Ranking, the Pakistan Army ascended from the 15th, 10th, and 9th positions in 2020, 2021, and 2022 respectively, to the 7th most powerful army globally in 2024. This accomplishment is undoubtedly a source of pride for Pakistan, reassuring its citizens that their homeland’s defense is entrusted to the world’s seventh-largest professional army.
Global Firepower has been annually evaluating military power since 2006, assigning a “PowerIndex” score to each country based on over 60 factors, with a lower score indicating greater combat capability. Pakistan’s Power Index of 0.1694 surpasses that of countries like Japan, France, Italy, Turkey, Brazil, Iran, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Canada.
However, despite the increasing prowess of the Pakistan Army, our adversaries relentlessly endeavor to deceive the impressionable minds of our youth through incessant social media campaigns. Nevertheless, history has shown that our nation and its army consistently thwart such attempts, emerging victorious.
The people of Pakistan take great pride in the recent notable ranking achieved by the Pakistan Army and vehemently oppose any attempts to disseminate propaganda against this esteemed institution of the nation. The people of Pakistan stand in solidarity with the Army and anticipate witnessing its unwavering commitment to Pakistan’s development, advancement, and security under the dynamic leadership of Army Chief General Asim Munir.
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