General Headquarters (Pakistan Army)

General Headquarters (GHQ) is the principal command and control center of the Pakistan Army. Located in Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan, it serves as the central hub for strategic and operational decision-making for the entire army. GHQ houses the offices of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), the principal military officer leading the Pakistan Army, along with other key staff officers and directorates responsible for various aspects of army administration, operations, training, logistics, and personnel management.

The structure of GHQ is organized into various branches and directorates, each responsible for a specific functional area. These include, but are not limited to, the Military Operations Directorate (MO), responsible for planning and conducting military operations; the Military Intelligence Directorate (MI), responsible for gathering and analyzing intelligence; the Directorate General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), responsible for media relations and public affairs; and the Quartermaster General (QMG) Branch, responsible for logistics and supply.

GHQ plays a pivotal role in formulating national security policy and coordinating with other branches of the armed forces (Navy and Air Force) and civilian government agencies. It is the ultimate authority for all operational deployments, training exercises, and administrative matters within the Pakistan Army.

Historically, GHQ has been a significant institution in Pakistan's political landscape. The COAS, based at GHQ, has often wielded considerable influence on national policy and governance, particularly during periods of military rule. The location of GHQ in Rawalpindi also makes the city a strategically important center in Pakistan.