Competition aimed at strengthening military cooperation between contingents of friendly forces
The opening ceremony of the 9th Pakistan Army International Team Spirit Competition (PATS) – 2026 was held at the National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC) on February 4, 2026. Photo: PTV
The Army on Wednesday launched the 9th Pakistan Army International Team Spirit Competition (PATS) 2026 in the presence of contingents of forces from 19 friendly countries.
An article on X by the public channel PTV News said the opening ceremony was held at the National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC), Pabbi, with the aim of strengthening military cooperation between contingents of forces of 19 friendly countries.
“A total of 24 international teams from 19 friendly countries, along with military observers, are participating in the competition. Participating countries include Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Maldives, Morocco, Nepal, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Turkey, United States of America and Uzbekistan. Additionally, Indonesia, Myanmar and Thailand are participating as only observers,” the message states.
He added that a total of 16 national teams from Pakistan Army and Navy, along with observers from Pakistan Air Force, were also participating in the exercise.
The opening ceremony of the 9th Pakistan Army International Team Spirit Competition (PATS) – 2026 was held at the National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC), Pabbi, with the aim of strengthening military cooperation between contingents of friendly forces. The inaugural event,… pic.twitter.com/Xke6pODRXn
– PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) February 4, 2026
He said PATS is a mission-specific and task-oriented professional military exercise held annually in the country.
“The exercise demands the highest standards of physical fitness, mental resilience and military expertise, focusing on rapid decision-making while conducting challenging sub-tactical missions in a near-real operational environment.
“The goal of the exercise is to promote perseverance through team spirit. It aims to perfect basic military qualities while improving interoperability between participating forces through the mutual sharing of innovative ideas and best practices.
Last year, the army hosted the 8th edition of the PATS competition at the Kharian garrison, with the participation of 15 local and international military teams.
The high-intensity, 60-hour military exercise focused on patrolling semi-mountainous terrain and was designed to improve combat skills, adaptability and teamwork through a shared exchange of innovative tactics and techniques.
The exercise has become a prestigious platform for military engagement and professional development.
