ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, on Friday promoted Lieutenant General Aamer Raza, HI(M), SBt, to the rank of four-star general and appointed him as the Commander of the National Strategic Command.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office on Friday, the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, has announced the promotion of Lieutenant General Aamer Raza, HI(M), SBt, Chief of the General Staff of Pakistan Army, to the rank of “Four-Star General” and his appointment as “Commander National Strategic Command”.
The Prime Minister congratulated General Aamer Raza, HI(M), SBt, on his promotion and appointment, wishing him the best for undertaking this important responsibility.
The office of Commander of the National Strategic Command was established after the Pakistan Army, Air Force and Navy (Amendment) Bills 2025 came into force.
Islamabad, 24 July 2026.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has announced the promotion of Lieutenant General Aamer Raza, HI(M), SBt, Chief of the General Staff of Pakistan Army, to the rank of “Four-Star General” and his appointment as “Commander National Strategic… pic.twitter.com/U1Qk2K5nsl
— Prime Minister’s Office (@PakPMO) July 24, 2026
Under the same legislation, Field Marshal Asim Munir was appointed as Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces, while the post of Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) was abolished.
General Shamshad Mirza was the last officer to serve as Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee before the position was replaced under the new legal framework.
The law states that the prime minister may appoint the commander from among serving Pakistan Army generals for a three-year term, based on the recommendation of the Chief of the Army Staff, Chief of Defence Forces.
Profile of General Aamer Raza
In keeping with the Pakistan Armed Forces’ proud tradition of merit and competence, Chief of General Staff (CGS) Lieutenant General Aamer Raza has been elevated to the rank of Four-Star General.
General Aamer Raza’s promotion follows a distinguished professional career, including his service as Chief of General Staff (CGS) at General Headquarters (GHQ)—a pivotal appointment that demands strategic vision, operational acumen, and a comprehensive understanding of military affairs.
As the head of the General Staff Branch of the Pakistan Army, he is regarded as the most knowledgeable and suitable officer for this new role.
His extensive experience, particularly as Director General Weapons and Equipment and Chairman Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT), provides a strong technical foundation for the demanding technological responsibilities associated with the office of Commander, National Strategic Command.
A sterling career in the Armoured Corps, complemented by a wide range of command, staff, and institutional appointments across the Pakistan Army, reflects his broad professional experience, technical expertise, and proven competence.
The appointment reinforces the Pakistan Armed Forces’ emphasis on selecting officers for their highest responsibilities on the basis of professional merit, experience, and suitability for the role.
Owing to his extensive experience and competence, General Aamer Raza is widely regarded as the best choice to lead this new headquarters, which will serve as the pivot for matters pertaining to the Strategic Domain.
