Rawalpindi, February 10, 2026: The 9th International Pakistan Army Team Spirit (PATS) Competition concluded successfully at Kharian on February 9, with Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Force (COAS & CDF), attending the closing ceremony as chief guest, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.
The 60-hour-long patrolling exercise, designed to enhance professional military skills, focused on the exchange of innovative ideas, tactical experiences, and best practices among participating teams. Held from February 5, the exercise was conducted in the semi-mountainous terrain of Punjab, offering a realistic and challenging operational environment.
Over the years, the PATS Competition has evolved into a prestigious multinational military exercise, promoting professional excellence, mutual learning, and stronger military-to-military cooperation while fostering camaraderie and team spirit in demanding conditions.
This year’s event saw broad participation from 19 countries, including Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Maldives, Morocco, Nepal, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Türkiye, the United States, and Uzbekistan. Indonesia, Myanmar, and Thailand attended as observers. Additionally, 16 domestic teams from the Pakistan Army and Pakistan Navy took part, while observers from the Pakistan Air Force were also present.
Addressing the ceremony, Field Marshal Asim Munir praised the participating teams for their professionalism, operational competence, physical and mental endurance, and high morale. He highlighted the significance of multinational engagements in strengthening collective preparedness and adapting to the evolving nature of modern warfare.
Reaffirming the Pakistan Army’s core values, the army chief underscored the enduring soldiery attributes of “character, courage, and competence,” noting that these qualities have been consistently demonstrated by Pakistani soldiers, particularly in ongoing counterterrorism efforts.
At the conclusion of the event, the COAS & CDF presented awards to outstanding participants. International observers and defence attachés also attended and commended the high standards of professionalism, organization, and conduct maintained throughout the exercise.
During his visit, Field Marshal Munir also witnessed various training activities at the National Counter Terrorism Centre in Pabbi, including a tour of a newly established tactical simulator. He lauded the efforts of the troops and technical team and emphasized the importance of simulator-based training to complement traditional methods.
