Pakistan's National Assembly Approves Key Military and Nuclear Command Bills

Significant Legislative Changes in Pakistan's Military Structure

Islamabad: On Thursday, the National Assembly of Pakistan approved two crucial bills aimed at reforming the military and nuclear command framework, following the constitutional amendments made last year.

The recent constitutional changes led to the establishment of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) position, replacing the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee. Currently, Field Marshal Asim Munir holds the CDF role.

Additionally, the amendment created the Commander of the National Strategic Command (CNSC), a four-star position responsible for the operational integration of Pakistan's strategic forces. Last month, General Syed Aamer Raza was elevated from lieutenant general to become the inaugural CNSC.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif introduced the bills—namely the Defence Forces of Pakistan Act, 2026, and the revised National Command Authority Act, 2010—during a session attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

A statement from the Prime Minister's Office, following a cabinet meeting earlier, indicated that these bills were drafted as part of the ongoing adjustments stemming from the 27th constitutional amendment.

The Defence Forces Act aims to clarify administrative matters concerning the Chief of Defence Forces and the headquarters associated with this office.

The amendments to the National Command Authority Act were described as essential following the recent constitutional changes.

According to reports from a local newspaper, the Defence Forces of Pakistan Act is intended to formalize the CDF's role as the commander of the armed forces.

The bill also seeks to promote multi-domain integration, restructuring, and enhanced cooperation among the Armed Forces.

The proposed act will facilitate the creation of the Defence Forces Headquarters, which will serve as the central command for the Armed Forces.

This headquarters will operate under the CDF, who will act as the primary military advisor to the Prime Minister on issues related to national security and defense.

The CDF will hold operational command over the Armed Forces and will be accountable to the federal government regarding command and control matters.

The draft outlines that the CDF will have the authority to manage personnel matters, including retirement and service limits, for those governed by Armed Forces laws, excluding those appointed under Article 243.

Furthermore, the CDF may exercise additional powers as prescribed by the Federal Government.

The draft also allows for the issuance of instructions and amendments to rules to ensure compliance with the proposed act.

In the event of any challenges or inconsistencies, the president may issue orders to resolve such issues.

Before becoming law, these bills must receive approval from the Senate and the president.