ISLAMABAD / BAHAWALPUR: Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Syed Asim Munir, visited the Bahawalpur Garrison to review operational preparedness and observe a large-scale field exercise focused on multi-domain warfare, according to an official statement issued by the military.
During the visit, the army chief was briefed on operational, training, and administrative matters of the Bahawalpur Corps, with particular emphasis on preparations for future battlefield environments shaped by emerging technologies.
He later witnessed Exercise “Steadfast Resolve” at Khairpur Tamewali, a high-intensity manoeuvre involving conventional forces alongside unmanned aerial systems, advanced surveillance platforms, electronic warfare capabilities and modern command-and-control networks. The exercise demonstrated coordinated operations across land, air and electronic domains, reflecting the armed forces’ increasing focus on technology-enabled combat readiness.
Addressing participating troops, the army chief praised their discipline and preparedness, while reiterating that Pakistan’s armed forces remain focused on safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity amid evolving regional and security challenges.
Emphasis on Technology-Driven Warfare
In remarks to commanders, Field Marshal Munir highlighted what he described as a fundamental shift in the character of warfare, driven by rapid technological change. He noted that future conflicts are expected to rely more heavily on digital, cyber and electronic manoeuvres rather than on traditional massed-force deployments.
He said the armed forces are undergoing structural and doctrinal transformation across multiple domains, with innovation, indigenisation and adaptability identified as central pillars of this transition. Military planners, he added, must remain prepared for complex security environments shaped by artificial intelligence, autonomous systems and information-centric operations.
Education, Skills and Sustainment
During the visit, the army chief also inaugurated the ROHI eSkills Learning Hub, an initiative aimed at expanding access to digital skills training for students from southern Punjab and other parts of the country. He additionally opened the APS Abbasia Campus, underscoring the military’s continued involvement in education and youth development initiatives.
Later, he visited the EME Regional Workshop, where officials briefed him on maintenance frameworks designed to support modern military platforms through advanced technologies, local manufacturing and sustainment solutions.
Earlier, upon arrival at the Bahawalpur Garrison, the army chief was received by the corps commander. He also paid tribute at the Yadgar-e-Shuhada memorial, laying a floral wreath and offering prayers in remembrance of fallen soldiers.
