What is Field Marshal in Pakistan?
A Field Marshal is the highest honorary military rank in Pakistan. It is not a part of the regular-promotion system in the Army of Pakistan. This special title is awarded to a military officer for extraordinary service to the country. It holds a 5-star status, which is above the rank of a General. So far, only one person in Pakistan’s history has been given this title.
Field Marshal Rank in Pakistan
The rank of Field Martial is the top position in the Pakistan Army hierarchy. It is even higher than the four-star General and is mostly honorary. It is rarely awarded and is not part of routine military promotions.
In 1965, General Muhammad Ayub Khan was granted the title of Field Marshal for his exceptional leadership. He remains the only officer in Pakistan’s history to receive this honor.
Salary of Field Marshal in Pakistan
Field Marshal is an honorary title, so it does not have a standard salary like other military ranks. However, the person holding this rank receives high-level privileges and lifetime benefits.
Although official salary details are not published, it is estimated that a Field Marshal may receive:
- A monthly pension possibly over Rs. 800,000 to Rs. 1 million
- Free official residence
- Personal security team
- VIP travel and official protocol
These benefits reflect the status of the rank more than its actual duties.
Role of Field Marshal in Pakistan
In Pakistan, the Field Marshal does not hold active military command. The position is mostly symbolic and used to recognize extraordinary military achievements.
Ayub Khan, the only Marshal, also served as President of Pakistan, which gave him both political and military authority. In modern times, the Field Marshal has no operational role unless the government assigns a special task.
Main roles include:
- Representing the military at national events
- Preserving army traditions
- Acting as a ceremonial figure
- Advising on defense matters if requested
Related keywords: ceremonial army ranks, Ayub Khan military role, non-combat army titles
Field Marshal Powers in Pakistan
- Only one person has received this title in Pakistan: Ayub Khan
- It is the only 5-star military rank in the country (Pakistan)
- It is honorary & not part of normal military promotions in Pakistan
- It includes lifetime benefits and state protocol
- Pakistan adopted this rank from the British military structure
Conclusion
This role is a mark of exceptional service and national honor. While it does not involve military command, it carries great respect and ceremonial importance. The rank has been awarded only once, making it one of the rarest and most prestigious titles in Pakistan’s military history.
