The 8th International Pakistan Army Team Spirit (PATS) Competition concluded at Kharian Garrison after five days of intensive military exercises conducted from April 14 to 18, 2025. Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir, NI(M), attended the closing ceremony as the chief guest.
The 60-hour-long patrolling exercise was designed to enhance combat skills and promote mutual learning through the exchange of tactical experience and innovative ideas among participating teams. Conducted in the semi-mountainous terrain of Punjab, the competition has grown into a prestigious international military event.
Seven teams from the Pakistan Army, along with one team from the Pakistan Navy and fifteen teams from friendly countries—including Bahrain, Belarus, China, Saudi Arabia, Maldives, Morocco, Nepal, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Türkiye, the United States, and Uzbekistan—participated in the event. Observers from Bangladesh, Egypt, Germany, Kenya, Myanmar, and Thailand also witnessed the exercise.
In his address, the COAS commended the participating teams for their professionalism, endurance, and high morale throughout the various stages of the exercise. He emphasised the importance of joint training initiatives such as PATS, which combine military skills and tactical acumen to strengthen team spirit in the face of modern warfare challenges. “Pakistan Army upholds the soldierly attributes of character, courage, and competence, which have been amply demonstrated in our fight against terrorism,” the COAS stated.
The event concluded with the COAS presenting individual and team awards to the participants. International observers and defence attachés of participating countries also attended the ceremony and lauded the professional organisation of the event.
