The 9th International Pakistan Army Team Spirit (PATS) Competition concluded successfully at Kharian on 9 February 2026, marking another milestone in Pakistan Army’s ongoing efforts to promote professional military excellence and international cooperation. The closing ceremony was graced by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), who attended the event as the Chief Guest.
The Pakistan Army Team Spirit Competition is a demanding 60-hour continuous patrolling exercise designed to enhance professional military skills through the exchange of innovative ideas, tactical experiences, and best practices among participating teams. Conducted from 5 February 2026 onwards, the exercise was held in the semi-mountainous terrain of Punjab, providing a realistic, physically and mentally challenging operational environment that closely mirrors contemporary battlefield conditions.
Over the years, PATS has evolved into a prestigious and highly competitive multinational military exercise, widely recognized for promoting operational excellence, mutual learning, and interoperability among participating nations. The forum continues to play a vital role in strengthening military-to-military cooperation, fostering professional understanding, and building enduring camaraderie among soldiers operating in complex and demanding environments.
This year’s competition witnessed broad international participation, with teams from 19 countries, including Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Maldives, Morocco, Nepal, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Türkiye, United States of America, and Uzbekistan. Indonesia, Myanmar, and Thailand attended the exercise as observers. In addition, 16 domestic teams from the Pakistan Army and Pakistan Navy participated actively, while observers from the Pakistan Air Force were also present, reflecting a joint-services spirit.
Addressing the closing ceremony, the COAS & CDF commended all participating teams for their exceptional professionalism, operational competence, physical and mental endurance, and high morale demonstrated throughout the competition. He emphasized that such multinational engagements are essential for enhancing collective preparedness, promoting adaptability, and responding effectively to the evolving character of modern warfare.
Reaffirming the core values of the Pakistan Army, the COAS & CDF highlighted the enduring soldiery attributes of “character, courage, and competence”, noting that these qualities continue to define Pakistani soldiers, particularly in the ongoing fight against terrorism and emerging security challenges.
At the culmination of the event, the COAS & CDF presented awards to outstanding teams and individuals in recognition of their exemplary performance. International observers and Defence Attachés from participating countries also attended the ceremony and expressed their appreciation for the high standards of professionalism, organization, and conduct demonstrated throughout the exercise.
During his visit, the COAS & CDF also witnessed various training activities at the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) Pabbi, including a visit to the newly established Tactical Simulator. He lauded the dedication and efforts of the troops and technical teams involved and underscored the importance of simulator-based training in complementing traditional field training methods to enhance realism, precision, and operational readiness.
The successful conduct of the 9th International PATS Competition underscores Pakistan Army’s commitment to professional excellence, regional and global military cooperation, and continuous adaptation to the demands of modern conflict.
