What is a Field Marshal? Pakistan's highest military rank explained

Pakistan's promotion of General Asim Munir to Field Marshal marked only the second time in the nation's 77-year history that a military leader has received the coveted five-star rank, a title that signals extraordinary achievement in a country where the military wields significant influence.

The Field Marshal rank represents a distinction traditionally reserved for generals who have led the nation to victory in major conflicts. Unlike other promotions that come with expanded operational authority, the Field Marshal title is primarily ceremonial but carries immense prestige.

The government has specifically cited Munir's leadership during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos as justification for his promotion.

According to Pakistan’s military protocol, the five-star rank of Field Marshal is the highest attainable position in the armed forces. The promotion includes a distinctive insignia and is considered a lifetime appointment, as was the case with Ayub Khan.

The notification issued by the Ministry of Defense did not specify the tenure of Field Marshal Munir’s appointment.

Pakistan inherited the rank from the British colonial system after independence in 1947. While neighboring India has appointed multiple Field Marshals, Pakistan has been notably more selective, with General Ayub Khan being the only previous recipient in 1959.

In 2016, despite public advocacy and a formal court petition to elevate General Raheel Sharif for his counter-terrorism operations, the rank was ultimately not conferred—suggesting that successful internal security operations alone have not historically justified this exceptional title.

Democratic promotion breaks past precedent

The historical context of Khan's elevation differs significantly from Munir's. Khan received the rank while serving as President after taking power through a military coup—and without having secured a battlefield victory.

Conversely, Munir's elevation came through the democratic government's cabinet decision with involvement from both the Prime Minister and President, according to official statements from the Prime Minister's Office.

The promotion places General Munir in rare company globally. Active Field Marshals exist in only a handful of countries, including the United Kingdom, where the rank is typically reserved for members of the royal family and exceptional military leaders.