Brief profile of Pakistan’s first CDF Field Marshal Asim Munir

Field Marshal Asim Munir has officially taken charge as Pakistan’s first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). The new post was created under the 27th Constitutional Amendment and makes him the top commander of all three armed forces. He will continue to serve as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) at the same time.

Early Military Career

Field Marshal Asim Munir joined the Pakistan Army in 1986. He was commissioned in the 23rd Frontier Force Regiment after completing the 17th Officers Training Course at Mangla. His early career included a mix of command, staff and instructional roles that shaped his leadership style.

Important Positions Held

Over the years, he served as Directing Staff at the Command and Staff College in Quetta. He worked as Brigade Major in Kel and later served as a General Staff Officer (GSO-II) at the CGS Secretariat.

He also became the Chief of Staff of Mangla Corps. He served as Quartermaster General at GHQ before becoming the army chief. His command experience includes leading the 23rd Frontier Force Regiment, an infantry brigade, and serving as Force Commander Northern Areas (FCNA) in Gilgit.

Top Intelligence Leadership

Field Marshal Munir is one of the few officers who has headed both major intelligence agencies of Pakistan. He served as Director General Military Intelligence (MI) and later as the Director General of ISI. After completing his tenure at ISI, he was appointed Corps Commander Gujranwala.

Education and Academic Qualifications

He has studied at several respected institutions, including the Fuji School in Japan, Command and Staff College Quetta, and Malaysian Armed Forces College Kuala Lumpur. He completed higher studies at the National Defence University Islamabad, receiving an MPhil in Public Policy and Strategic Security Management.

Honours and Personality

Field Marshal Asim Munir is the first COAS in Pakistan’s history to receive the Sword of Honour. Known for his disciplined lifestyle, he is a Hafiz-e-Quran. He enjoys sports, reading, and travelling.