Islamabad, May 20, 2025: In a powerful and historic decision, the Government of Pakistan has conferred the honorary title of Field Marshal upon General Asim Munir, the current Chief of Army Staff (COAS). This makes him only the second military leader in Pakistan’s history to be elevated to this symbolic five-star rank—following General Ayub Khan in 1959.
The move recognizes Gen Munir’s exceptional leadership, especially during the high-stakes Operation Banyanun Marsoos, where Pakistan’s Armed Forces decisively countered India’s aggressive Operation Sindoor.
Who Is General Asim Munir?
General Syed Asim Munir is a career military officer known for his integrity, professionalism, and battlefield intelligence. Before becoming COAS in November 2022, he served as the Director General of Military Intelligence (MI) and later the Director General of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI)—making him the first Pakistani Army Chief to have headed both top intelligence agencies.
A graduate of the prestigious Officers Training School (OTS), Mangla, he was awarded the Sword of Honour, recognizing him as the best cadet of his course. His reputation as a disciplined strategist, coupled with a firm commitment to constitutional values, has made him a widely respected figure in military and civilian circles alike.
Why the Title of Field Marshal Now?
The honorary title was awarded to Gen Asim Munir in recognition of his extraordinary leadership during Operation Banyanun Marsoos, a recent military confrontation in which Pakistan’s Armed Forces successfully neutralized India’s Operation Sindoor, shooting down six Indian fighter jets, including three French-made Rafales.
This bold and successful defense of Pakistan’s airspace is being viewed as one of the most significant military accomplishments in recent years. Indian media has offered limited confirmation, but a top Indian Air Force official did acknowledge the losses with the statement: “Losses are part of war.”
According to senior defense officials, Gen Munir’s calm yet assertive leadership, his ability to integrate real-time intelligence, and his commitment to national sovereignty were instrumental in Pakistan’s success during the standoff.
It is classified as a five-star NATO equivalent rank (OF-10) yet holds no additional constitutional or operational powers. The rank is mostly symbolic and serves as a mark of distinguished military service and leadership.
Historically, the title was awarded only once before—to General Muhammad Ayub Khan in 1959.
At the time, Ayub Khan was serving as the Commander-in-Chief of the Pakistan Army and was later appointed as the President of Pakistan. The decision to bestow the title then was rooted in recognizing his strategic military contributions.
Fast forward to today, General Asim Munir’s elevation to Field Marshal comes after Pakistan’s triumphant display of military excellence during Operation Banyanun Marsoos.
This operation saw Pakistani forces successfully shoot down six Indian fighter jets—including three French-built Rafale jets—sending a strong signal of deterrence. While India remained tight-lipped on specifics, a top Indian Air Force official indirectly admitted to the loss, stating, “Losses are part of the war,” during a press conference.
Rank Clarification & Symbolism:
- Service Branch: Pakistan Army
- Rank Level: Five-Star (Field Marshal)
- Equivalent To: Admiral of the Fleet (Navy), Marshal of the Air Force (Air Force)
- Next Lower Rank: General
- Nature: Honorary and symbolic (no command or executive powers)
Despite the grandeur of the title, Pakistan’s constitution ensures a strict separation between military honors and political or administrative authority.
The President remains the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, while all executive decisions rest with the Prime Minister.
Thus, the title of Field Marshal does not grant any additional legislative or governance roles.
Who Was Ayub Khan?
Muhammad Ayub Khan was Pakistan’s first military ruler and also the first Pakistani to become a Field Marshal. Born in 1907, Ayub Khan served in the British Indian Army before Partition and later became Commander-in-Chief of the Pakistan Army. In 1958, he took over the government through a military coup, becoming the President of Pakistan.
Ayub Khan ruled Pakistan for about 11 years (1958–1969). He introduced many reforms, such as:
Creating a new capital, Islamabad
Building roads, dams, and industries
Starting the “Green Revolution” to improve agriculture
Legal Framework and Limitations:
There exists no regular legislative mechanism to promote officers to Field Marshal.
Any such appointment involves consultation between the Prime Minister, President, Ministry of Defence, and sometimes legal counsel from the Supreme or High Courts.
The Constitution prohibits all individuals—including those in uniform—from exercising powers beyond the defined constitutional limits.
Military analysts view this move as a nod to Pakistan’s evolving military diplomacy and strategic assertiveness. “It’s a powerful morale boost internally, and a message externally—especially after the recent aerial engagements,” said defense expert Lt. Col. (R) Usman Khattak.
Read More: Historic Move: COAS Gen Asim Munir Promoted to Rank of Field Marshal
With General Asim Munir now donning the honorary title of Field Marshal, the Pakistan Army has not only revived a historic tradition but also reaffirmed its commitment to constitutional boundaries and professional excellence.
FAQs
1. How many Field Marshals of Pakistan?
Answer:
There is two Field Marshals in Pakistan’s history.
2. Who is the Field Marshal of Pakistan?
Answer:
Field Marshal General Syed Asim Munir is the current and second Field Marshal of Pakistan. The first was Field Marshal Muhammad Ayub Khan, appointed in 1959.
3. Field Marshal Zhukov medals
Answer:
Field Marshal Georgy Zhukov of the Soviet Union was one of the most decorated military commanders in history. He received numerous medals, including:
- Hero of the Soviet Union (4 times)
- Order of Victory
- Order of Lenin (6 times)
- Order of the Red Banner
- Foreign honors from countries like the USA, UK, France, and others
His medal count exceeds 100 awards, recognizing his role in major WWII victories such as the Battle of Berlin and the defense of Moscow.
4. Is there any Field Marshal in the world?
Answer:
Yes, many countries have awarded the rank of Field Marshal, although it is mostly symbolic today. Examples include:
- UK: Field Marshal Sir Peter Inge (last active, now honorary only)
- Russia/USSR: Field Marshal (Marshal of the Soviet Union) like Zhukov
- India: Field Marshals Sam Manekshaw and K.M. Cariappa
- Pakistan: Field Marshals Ayub Khan and now Asim Munir
- Egypt: Field Marshal Abdel Fattah el-Sisi (before becoming president)
