CDF to hold five-year tenure; new top ranks introduced across armed forces.

ISLAMABAD NA approves major defence restructuring

The National Assembly on Thursday approved wide-ranging amendments to the Pakistan Army Act, Air Force Act, and Navy Ordinance, formalising the creation of the powerful new role of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and aligning military laws with the 27th Constitutional Amendment.

The legislation, presented by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, was passed with a majority vote. The House also cleared the Supreme Court Practice and Procedure (Amendment) Bill during the same session.

COAS to serve as CDF for five years

Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar said the amendments harmonise existing military law with the new constitutional setup and formally appoint the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) as the first Chief of Defence Forces.

The CDF will hold a five-year tenure from the date of notification.
Under the updated legal framework:

• The COAS will simultaneously serve as CDF.
• If elevated to Field Marshal, the officer will perform duties as defined under the amended clauses.
• Article 243 has been revised to officially recognise the rank of Field Marshal.

The Ministry of Defence had submitted three summaries, all approved by the federal cabinet earlier in the day.

New command structure across armed forces

The amendments include structural changes in the Army, Air Force, and Navy, along with the redefinition of appointment authorities.

Under Clause 8G, the post of Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (JCSC) will be abolished effective November 27, 2025.

Instead, a new Commander National Strategic Command will be appointed by the prime minister on the recommendations of the COAS and CDF for a three-year term, extendable for another three years.
The position:

• Will not be subject to judicial review
• Will not follow Army Act retirement clauses
• Will remain a four-star General during the term

Section B has also been revised, replacing the word “government” to ensure appointments are made on the army chief’s recommendation.

Cabinet endorses new military ranks and Constitutional Court

A federal cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved the defence amendments and endorsed:

• Creation of CDF
• Abolition of JCSC post with the incumbent’s retirement
• Introduction of three new honorary ranks:
  • Field Marshal
  • Marshal of the Air Force
  • Admiral of the Fleet

The cabinet also approved the draft Federal Constitutional Court (Procedure and Practice) Act, 2025, establishing a new Constitutional Court under the 27th Amendment.

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal said the legislative changes were a necessary continuation of the amendment. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar added that aligning statutory laws with the Constitution was essential for legal clarity.

Following completion of business, the National Assembly adjourned until 11am Friday.