A. 1956
B. 1965
C. 1972
D. 1977
Background of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS):
Before 1972, the head of the Pakistan Army was officially known as the Commander-in-Chief (C-in-C). After the 1971 war, Pakistan underwent significant political and military changes. In 1972, the title was changed to Chief of Army Staff (COAS) as part of reforms to the structure and command of the armed forces. General Gul Hassan Khan was the last Commander-in-Chief of the Pakistan Army, while General Tikka Khan became the first Chief of Army Staff.
Key Details About Commander-in-Chief and COAS
- Old Title: Commander-in-Chief (C-in-C)
- New Title: Chief of Army Staff (COAS)
- Change Made: 1972
- Last Commander-in-Chief: General Gul Hassan Khan
- First Chief of Army Staff: General Tikka Khan
- Period: Government of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto
- Current Title: Chief of Army Staff (COAS)
Related Questions About Pakistan Army Leadership and COAS
1. In which year was the title Commander-in-Chief changed to Chief of Army Staff?
Answer: 1972.
2. Who was the last Commander-in-Chief of the Pakistan Army?
Answer: General Gul Hassan Khan.
3. Who was the first Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan?
Answer: General Tikka Khan.
4. What does COAS stand for?
Answer: Chief of Army Staff.
5. Who introduced major military reforms in Pakistan in 1972?
Answer: The government of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.
Exam Tip for Pakistan Army Command Structure
Remember the key sequence:
Commander-in-Chief → 1972 → Chief of Army Staff
Last C-in-C → General Gul Hassan Khan
First COAS → General Tikka Khan
This is an important Pakistan Studies and military-history fact for PPSC, FPSC, PMS, CSS, NTS, OTS, ISSB, FIA, ASF, Police, Pakistan Army, and other competitive and recruitment examinations.