Pakistan Army: What’s Happening Right Now?
If you’re curious about the Pakistan Army, you’ve landed in the right spot. From border drills to new equipment, we break down the biggest stories in plain language. No jargon, just the facts you need to stay informed.
Key Operations and Exercises
One of the most talked‑about activities this year is the annual joint exercise with the Chinese People’s Liberation Army. The drill, called "Friendship 2025," focuses on mountain warfare and counter‑terrorism tactics. Troops from both sides practice moving heavy gear across steep terrain, a skill that matters a lot in the Himalayas and the rugged north‑western frontier.
At the same time, the Pakistan Army has stepped up its border patrols along the Line of Actual Control with India. Patrols are now using drones and night‑vision equipment to reduce the risk of accidental clashes. The goal is simple: keep a watchful eye without escalating tensions.
New Gear and Modernisation
Modernisation is a top priority. The army recently received its first batch of Chinese‑made VT‑4 main battle tanks. Soldiers say the tanks are faster and have better fire‑control systems than older models. Alongside tanks, the army is rolling out new communication suites that let units share real‑time data on the battlefield.
Another upgrade is the induction of the JF‑17 Thunder fighter jet. While the aircraft is already in service, a new block version with upgraded radar and weapons is being tested. Pilots are training on the new system to keep the air force and army aviation on the same page.
Leadership changes also make headlines. The new Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, took command last month. He’s known for pushing digital transformation and emphasizing joint operations with the navy and air force. Analysts expect his tenure to focus on cyber‑defence and improving logistics.
But it’s not all exercises and equipment. The army is involved in huge humanitarian projects, especially after the recent floods in Punjab and Sindh. Engineers have built temporary bridges, cleared roads and helped deliver relief supplies. These efforts improve the army’s image at home and showcase its ability to respond quickly to natural disasters.
Security in the volatile Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region remains a daily challenge. The army continues counter‑insurgency operations against militant groups, using a mix of kinetic actions and community outreach programs. Soldiers work with local elders to encourage education and job creation, aiming to starve extremism of its support base.
On the diplomatic front, the Pakistan Army’s liaison office in Washington is holding talks on defence cooperation with the United States. Topics include joint training, intelligence sharing, and potential sales of next‑generation equipment. While talks are ongoing, both sides stress that any deal will respect regional stability.
So, what does all this mean for you? Whether you track regional security, follow defence tech, or just want a quick snapshot of what the Pakistan Army is up to, the picture is clear: modernising fast, staying active on the front lines, and playing a bigger role in disaster relief. Keep checking this page for the latest updates, because the story keeps evolving.
Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir's historic promotion to field marshal comes just after tense clashes with India in Kashmir, reigniting debates on the military’s grip over Pakistan’s politics. Munir's religious nationalism and the revival of old authoritarian patterns are reshaping the nation's direction.
On April 1, 2025, tensions flared along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch as the Pakistan Army violated the ceasefire pact. The incident involved a mine blast and unprovoked firing, to which the Indian Army responded strategically. Despite no Indian casualties, reports suggest Pakistani injuries. This disturbance follows a rare calm since 2021's ceasefire renewal amid ongoing security operations against militants in the region.