Pakistan Army’s International Exercise Concludes at Kharian

The 9th International Pakistan Army Team Spirit (PATS) Competition came to an end at Kharian on February 9, 2026. The military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), provided this update on Tuesday.

Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, the Chief of Defence Forces and COAS, was present as the chief guest for the closing ceremony. Conducting a 60-hour-long patrolling exercise designed to refine professional skills through innovative idea exchange and best practices sharing, the event took place in semi-mountainous Punjab under realistic operational conditions.

PATS has transformed into a highly esteemed military competition over years, known for promoting professional excellence among nations. This year’s edition welcomed teams from 19 countries, including Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Maldives, Morocco, Nepal, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Turkey (as Turkiye), the United States, and Uzbekistan.

Indonesia, Myanmar, and Thailand were observers. Pakistani Army and Navy’s sixteen teams participated alongside a contingent of Air Force observers.

In his address to the closing ceremony, Field Marshal Munir commended all participants for their “outstanding professionalism, physical endurance, operational competence, and high morale.” He highlighted the value of such multinational engagements in enhancing collective readiness against evolving warfare.

The COAS & CDF also underscored the core values of character, courage, and competence demonstrated by Pakistani soldiers, particularly in counter-terrorism efforts. This included a visit to the National Counter Terrorism Centre in Pabbi where he lauded the troops’ and technical team’s achievements.

In conclusion, the COAS & CDF presented awards for excellence. International attendees praised the event’s professionalism, organization, and conduct, noting its importance in reinforcing military-to-military cooperation and promoting camaraderie among nations.