Is Pakistan Moving Its Army Headquarters from Chaklala,Rawalpindi Due to Fear of Indian Army?

Ushnish Samadder | May 20, 2025, 12:15 IST
Is Pakistan Relocating Its Army HQ from Rawalpindi Over India Threat?
( Image credit : AP, Timeslife )
Islamabad/Rawalpindi – Amid rising tensions with India following a deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, reports have emerged that Pakistan is considering relocating its military headquarters from Chaklala in Rawalpindi to the capital city of Islamabad. This strategic move is reportedly driven by growing security concerns after India launched a series of precision strikes under "Operation Sindoor."

India’s Retaliatory Strikes Following Pahalgam Attack

The escalation began after a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 26 individuals. In response, India initiated Operation Sindoor, a calculated military offensive targeting terror infrastructure across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Indian forces used advanced weaponry, including BrahMos, Hammer, and SCALP missiles, to carry out the strikes.

According to reports, the operation destroyed nine terrorist camps and killed over a hundred militants and Pakistani soldiers. Indian officials emphasized that the strikes were aimed solely at militant infrastructure, with no intention of harming civilian populations.

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Pakistan Army confirms India missile strikes in its territory
( Image credit : ANI )

Pakistan’s Counter-Response and Escalation

In retaliation, Pakistan launched a series of drone strikes across the border, further heightening hostilities between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. However, a temporary ceasefire agreement was reached on May 10, scheduled to remain in effect until May 18.

Despite the ceasefire, intermittent gun battles have continued in the region. Just last week, Indian security forces neutralized three militants affiliated with the Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed during a fierce encounter in Jammu and Kashmir.

Possible Relocation of Pakistan Army’s GHQ


In a significant development, sources within Pakistan’s defense establishment have revealed that the country is considering relocating its General Headquarters (GHQ) from its long-standing base in Chaklala, Rawalpindi, to Islamabad. This move reportedly stems from growing concerns over the vulnerability of key military installations following India's recent strikes.

A major contributing factor to the decision appears to be a recent airstrike by India on a Pakistani Air Force base, which allegedly caused substantial damage to military transport equipment. Satellite imagery from Chinese satellite company MIZAZVISION and Indian firm Kawa Space confirmed visible destruction at the base, including damaged fuel trucks, collapsed storage structures, and scattered debris near the runway.

Security of Military Leadership at Stake

Amid heightened threats, it was earlier reported that Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir was moved to a secure bunker within GHQ following India’s retaliatory actions. Now, speculation is growing that Pakistan intends to shift its entire top military command structure to a more secure and strategically advantageous location within the capital.

The Nur Khan Airbase, situated just 10 kilometers from Islamabad, is considered a sensitive military compound and may serve a crucial role in these security arrangements. The airbase is known to house advanced aircraft and serves as a key logistics and operations center for Pakistan’s armed forces.

Implications for Regional Stability

The potential relocation of the Pakistan Army's GHQ signals not only the severity of current tensions but also a shift in Pakistan’s defensive posture. If confirmed, this move would represent a significant realignment of military strategy and a tacit acknowledgment of India’s growing precision-strike capabilities.

While both nations have agreed to a temporary ceasefire, the situation remains fluid and volatile. Analysts warn that unless diplomatic engagement resumes, the region could spiral into a deeper military crisis.

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