Miralay

A Miralay (Ottoman Turkish: ميرآلاى; Turkish: Miralay) was a senior military rank in the Ottoman Empire and Turkey. It is equivalent to the modern rank of Colonel in many military systems.

The rank fell between that of Kaymakam (Lieutenant Colonel) and Mirliva (Brigadier General). It was part of a hierarchical system of ranks used within the Ottoman military and later adopted by the Turkish Armed Forces. The term literally translates as "regimental commander" or "commander of the regiment."

The Miralay would typically be in command of an alay, which was the Ottoman equivalent of a regiment, consisting of several battalions or companies. The rank signified a significant level of experience and responsibility within the military hierarchy.

The rank of Miralay continues to be used in the modern Turkish Armed Forces, holding the same equivalent rank of Colonel.