Field Marshal Asim Munir praises multinational exercise, highlights preparation for modern warfare
The ninth Pakistan Army International Team Spirit Competition (PATS) concluded in Kharian on February 9, 2026, the army’s media wing Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Tuesday.
According to ISPR, the closing ceremony was attended by Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defense Forces (COAS and CDF), Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, as the chief guest.
The Team Spirit Competition is a 60-hour patrol exercise designed to enhance professional military skills through the exchange of innovative ideas, tactical experiences and best practices among participating teams, according to the release. Conducted from February 5, the exercise took place in the semi-mountainous terrain of Punjab, providing a realistic and challenging operational environment.
ISPR said PATS has evolved over the years into a prestigious and highly competitive military exercise, recognized for promoting professional excellence and mutual learning among participating nations. The forum continues to strengthen military-to-military cooperation and understanding while fostering camaraderie and team spirit in a demanding operational environment.
19 countries participated in this year’s contest, including Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Maldives, Morocco, Nepal, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Turkiye, the United States and Uzbekistan. Indonesia, Myanmar and Thailand attended as observers.
Sixteen national teams of Pakistan Army and Navy also participated, while observers from Pakistan Air Force were present at the event.
Addressing the closing ceremony, CDF Munir commended all participating teams for their “exceptional professionalism, physical and mental stamina, operational competence and high morale” demonstrated during the exercise. He highlighted the importance of such multinational engagements to enhance collective readiness and adapt to the changing character of modern warfare.
Reaffirming the core values of the Pakistan Army, he underlined the enduring military attributes of “character, courage and competence”, saying Pakistani soldiers had consistently demonstrated them, particularly in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
At the end of the event, the COAS and the CDF presented awards to the outstanding participants. International observers and defense attachés from participating countries also attended and praised the high level of professionalism, organization and conduct throughout the exercise.
Furthermore, the COAS and CDF witnessed various training activities at the National Counter Terrorism Center in Pabbi, including a visit to the newly established tactical simulator. He praised the efforts of the troops and technical team and emphasized the importance of simulator-based training to complement traditional training methods.
