KHARIAN: The Pakistan Army Team Spirit 2026 competition successfully concluded at Kharian, drawing to a close a challenging and highly anticipated multinational exercise. The closing ceremony was presided over by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, COAS & CDF, who graced the event as the Chief Guest.
Running from February 5 to 9, the ninth edition of the International Pakistan Army Team Spirit (PATS) Competition tested military personnel over a grueling 60-hour patrolling exercise. Set in the semi-mountainous terrain of Punjab, the event provided a realistic operational environment designed to push participants’ professional skills, endurance, and tactical adaptability to the limit.
Over the years, PATS has grown into a prestigious and highly competitive forum, promoting professional excellence, mutual learning, and camaraderie among participating nations. This year, teams from 19 countries competed, including Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Maldives, Morocco, Nepal, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Turkiye, the United States, and Uzbekistan. Observers from Indonesia, Myanmar, and Thailand were also present. Sixteen domestic teams from the Pakistan Army and Pakistan Navy participated, while the Pakistan Air Force contributed as observers.
Field Marshal Asim Munir Commends Excellence and Team Spirit
Addressing the closing ceremony, COAS & CDF Field Marshal Asim Munir praised all participating teams for their exceptional professionalism, mental and physical endurance, operational competence, and high morale throughout the exercise. He highlighted the importance of such multinational engagements in improving collective preparedness and adapting to the changing nature of modern warfare.
Field Marshal Munir reaffirmed the enduring values of the Pakistan Army—character, courage, and competence—noting that these qualities have consistently been demonstrated by Pakistani soldiers, particularly in ongoing counterterrorism operations.
Awards were presented to outstanding participants, with international observers and defence attachés lauding the high standards of professionalism, organization, and conduct displayed during the competition.
Training and Tactical Simulation
The COAS & CDF also visited the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in Pabbi, where he observed miscellaneous training activities, including a demonstration at the newly established Tactical Simulator. Field Marshal Munir praised the troops and technical teams, emphasizing that simulator-based training complements traditional methods and enhances operational readiness.
The event not only strengthened military-to-military cooperation among participating nations but also reinforced Pakistan’s commitment to fostering a professional, adaptive, and well-prepared armed force capable of meeting modern security challenges.
FAQs
What is the Pakistan Army Team Spirit Competition?
It is a 60-hour multinational patrolling exercise designed to enhance professional military skills, team spirit, and operational preparedness.
Which countries participated in PATS 2026?
Teams from 19 countries including Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Maldives, Morocco, Nepal, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Turkiye, USA, and Uzbekistan participated. Indonesia, Myanmar, and Thailand attended as observers.
Who presided over the closing ceremony?
Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, COAS & CDF, was the Chief Guest.
Where was the competition held?
The competition took place in the semi-mountainous terrain of Kharian, Punjab, Pakistan.
