A Guide to ARMY Ranks and Their Roles in Pakistan

Armed Forces Ranks in Pakistan 

Each division of the Pakistan Armed Forces has a unique structure of ranks, each with its distinct roles and responsibilities. These ranks come with insignia typically worn on the shoulder of the uniform, symbolizing the position and authority of the officer. Here, we provide a detailed look at the ranks in the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Ranks of the Pakistan Army

Commissioned Officers

Here's a list of army officer ranks: 

Second Lieutenant (2nd-Lt)

• The entry-level rank for commissioned officers.
• Leads a platoon of around 30 soldiers into battle.
• Works closely with a platoon sergeant to relay orders.

Lieutenant (Lt)

• Often referred to as ‘First Lieutenant’.
• Commands specialized units or platoons.
• May be in charge of artillery units with long-range weapons.

Captain (Capt)

• Commands a company-sized unit of over 100 soldiers.
• Works with Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) for effective leadership.
• Involved in training at cadet schools and training centers.

Major (Maj)

• Typically serves as a staff officer rather than on the battlefield.
• Oversees logistical or operational missions.

Lieutenant Colonel (Lt-Col)

• Commands a battalion of up to 1,000 soldiers.
• May act as Executive/Commanding Officer for task forces.

Colonel (Col)

• Serves as a staff officer, acting as a liaison between the battlefield and higher command.
• Advises senior officials on critical matters.

Brigadier (Brig)

• Commands a brigade or directs operations and missions as a staff officer.

Major General (Maj-Gen)

• Leads division-sized units of 10,000 to 15,000 soldiers.
• Often holds senior staff positions in the Ministry of Defence.

Lieutenant General (Lt-Gen)

• Commands corps units of more than 20,000 soldiers.
• Plays a significant role in appointing staff within the Ministry of Defence.

General (Gen)

• The highest rank in army is typically held by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
• Oversees all Army operations within their jurisdiction.

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Ranks of the Pakistan Navy

These are  the navy ranks of Pakistan:

Midshipman

• The initial training phase for becoming a Naval Officer.

Sub Lieutenant (S/Lt)

• Follows 2 years of training as a Midshipman.
• Monitors the crew and prepares to become a Lieutenant.

Lieutenant (Lt)

• Ensures crew members carry out their duties.
• Responsible for posting guards to watch for enemy attacks.

Lieutenant Commander (Lt-Cdr)

• Commands small crafts with a small crew.
• Leads specific departments within the Navy.

Commander (Cdr)

• Oversees warships or submarines.
• Can serve in naval bases or the Ministry of Defence.

Captain (Capt)

• Commands larger ships or holds senior positions in shore-based establishments.
• Manages crew well-being, logbooks, discipline, and job delegation.

Commodore (Cdre)

• Commands a fleet of vessels or takes on major roles in onshore bases.
• Assists Rear Admirals.

Rear Admiral (R-Adm)

• Commands ships and flies their own flags.
• Protects and supports the squadron in battle.

Vice Admiral (V-Adm)

• Assists the Admiral.
• Can run ships and fleets and hold government positions.

Admiral (Adm)

• The highest naval rank, equivalent to an Army General.
• Commands a fleet of ships and may have Rear and Vice Admirals on board.

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Ranks of the Pakistan Air Force

Here are Air Force ranks in order:

Pilot Officer (Plt-Off)

• The entry-level rank for a commissioned officer.
• Engages in on-ground duties en route to becoming a Flying Officer.

Flying Officer (Flg-Off)

• May not always fly but can command flights on-ground bases.

Flight Lieutenant (Flt-Lt)

• Commands small units of specially trained officers.
• Can choose to join aircrew or on-ground branches.

Squadron Leader (Sqn-Ldr)

• Oversees ground-based operations and squadrons.
• May command flying squadrons with Wing Commander approval.

Wing Commander (Wg-Cdr)

• Commands flying squadrons or administrative wings.
• Supervises Squadron Leaders.

Group Captain (Gp-Capt)

• Oversees training institutes and flying bases.
• Commands military aviation units, known as groups.

Air Commodore (Air-Cdre)

• Holds senior positions within groups.
• Commands groups or takes on base positions.

Air Vice Marshal (AVM)

• Commands military aviation units or groups.
• Often known as the Chief of the Air Staff.

Air Marshal (AM)

• Acts as Commander in Chief of the Air Force or similar senior roles.
• Fighter pilots may earn this rank based on service history.

Air Chief Marshal (ACM)

• The highest rank in the Pakistan Air Force.
• Usually serves as the Commander in Chief of the Air Force.

Conclusion 

The ranks in the Pakistan Army form a clear ladder, each with specific duties and importance. Every rank of Pakistan armed forces plays a key role in the Army's success. Knowing about these ranks and what they do helps us appreciate the hard work and sacrifices of Pakistan's soldiers. Their strong dedication to protecting the country shows the true spirit of the Pakistan Army.

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