Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry is a distinguished three-star general in the Pakistan Army, serving as the 22nd Director-General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) since December 6, 2022. His appointment marked a historic milestone, as he became the first officer from the Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (EME) Corps to hold this prestigious position. As DG ISPR, Chaudhry plays a pivotal role in shaping the military’s public image, managing communications, and addressing national security concerns. His leadership has been instrumental in navigating Pakistan through critical moments, including political controversies and regional tensions, particularly during the 2025 India-Pakistan conflict. This biography provides a comprehensive overview of his early life, education, military career, role in public affairs, recent activities, and personal details, offering a detailed understanding of his contributions to Pakistan’s defense and public narrative.
Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry Early Life
Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry was born in the Thal desert region of Punjab, Pakistan, in the late 1960s. Growing up in a challenging and arid environment, he developed resilience and determination, qualities that would later define his military career. His father, Sultan Bashiruddin Mahmood, was a renowned nuclear scientist who played a significant role in Pakistan’s nuclear program, notably at the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) and the Kahuta Enrichment Plant. This familial connection to science and national service profoundly influenced Chaudhry’s worldview and career trajectory. Named after his grandfather, Chaudhry Muhammad Sharif, he was raised in a middle-class family with a strong legacy of intellectual and patriotic contributions.
Chaudhry’s formative years in the Thal desert were marked by hardship, but they instilled in him a tenacity that earned him the nickname “Camel of the Desert” among his peers during military training. His early exposure to his father’s work in nuclear technology provided him with insights into the intersection of science and national security, shaping his approach to leadership in the Pakistan Army.
Education
Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry has a robust educational background, combining rigorous military training with international exposure. His academic journey began at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) in Kakul, where he completed his matriculation with a second division and underwent foundational training to become a commissioned officer. The PMA’s disciplined environment honed his leadership skills and instilled a strong sense of duty.
Chaudhry furthered his education at the Command and Staff College in Quetta, a prestigious institution for advanced military studies, where he developed expertise in strategy and operations. Seeking international perspectives, he attended the Royal Command and Staff College in Jordan, where he excelled, ranking first among international officers. He also studied at the German Staff College, gaining insights into global military doctrines. Additionally, Chaudhry pursued advanced studies at the National Defence University (NDU) in Islamabad, a key institution for senior officers focusing on national security and defense policy.
This diverse educational background, spanning national and international institutions, has equipped Chaudhry with a comprehensive understanding of military strategy, leadership, and communication, enabling him to excel in his role as DG ISPR.
Military Career
Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry’s military career is marked by a series of significant roles that highlight his versatility and expertise. Commissioned into the Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (EME) Corps, he focused on the technical and mechanical aspects of military operations, ensuring the army’s equipment and technology remained cutting-edge. His technical expertise set him apart, leading to his appointment as Director General of the Defense Science and Technology Organization (DESTO) in January 2020, where he oversaw advancements in weapons systems and counterterrorism technologies.
On December 6, 2022, Chaudhry made history by becoming the first EME Corps officer to assume the role of DG ISPR, succeeding Major General Babar Iftikhar. Promoted to Lieutenant General on May 11, 2024, he has continued to serve as DG ISPR, a role that positions him as the chief spokesperson for the Pakistan Armed Forces. His appointment was notable not only for its historical significance but also for the unique perspective he brought, blending technical expertise with strategic communication.
Chaudhry’s career also includes operational and strategic contributions, such as his leadership during Pakistan’s counter-operation “Bunyan al-Marsoos” in response to India’s “Operation Sindoor” in May 2025. His ability to navigate complex military and media landscapes has solidified his reputation as a key figure in Pakistan’s defense establishment.
Role in Public Affairs
As DG ISPR, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry is the public face of the Pakistan Army, responsible for managing its media relations and shaping its narrative. The ISPR serves as the military’s primary communication channel, disseminating information on defense policies, operations, and national security issues. Chaudhry’s role requires a delicate balance of transparency, strategic messaging, and diplomacy, particularly in a country where the military plays a significant role in public life.
In May 2024, Chaudhry sparked significant political debate during a press conference when he stated that political groups, specifically Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), must apologize for attacking the army before engaging in dialogue. He emphasized that such groups should “forgo politics of hate and adopt constructive politics.” This stance drew criticism from PTI, who labeled his remarks “a pack of lies” and argued that they strained state-citizen relations. Opposition leader Omar Ayub Khan and former Prime Minister Imran Khan dismissed Chaudhry’s authority to engage in political negotiations, highlighting the contentious nature of his role in bridging military and political spheres.
Chaudhry’s press conferences often influence both domestic and international perceptions. His ability to counter misinformation, particularly on platforms like X, has been critical in maintaining the military’s credibility. His leadership in ISPR also involves fostering public support for the armed forces, as seen during his visit to educational institutions in Murree on September 5, 2025, where he engaged with students to reinforce national unity.
Recent Events
In May 2025, escalating tensions between India and Pakistan brought Chaudhry into the spotlight as he responded to India’s “Operation Sindoor,” a series of airstrikes targeting alleged terror camps. Chaudhry condemned the attacks, dismissing India’s claims of neutralizing Pakistani projectiles and accusing India of fabricating evidence to justify its actions. He notably remarked, “When Pakistan strikes, the Indian media won’t need to spin stories—the whole world will know,” signaling Pakistan’s readiness to respond decisively.
During this period, Chaudhry faced scrutiny for defending Hafiz Abdur Rauf, a US-designated terrorist, whom he described as a “religious leader” and “family man” during a funeral for militants killed in the airstrikes. This stance drew international criticism, with Indian media and officials highlighting Rauf’s ties to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Additionally, Chaudhry’s controversial statement, “If you block our water, we will choke your breath,” during a university speech in May 2025, echoed militant rhetoric, raising concerns about Pakistan’s military narrative.
On May 23, 2025, Chaudhry labeled human rights activist Mahrang Baloch a “terrorist-proxy,” urging media to expose her “sinister face.” This drew backlash from activists like Farhatullah Babar, who cautioned against branding rights defenders as terrorists without evidence. These events underscore Chaudhry’s central role in shaping Pakistan’s defense narrative during a volatile period.
Personal Life and Family
Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry was born into a prominent family with a legacy in science and service. His father, Sultan Bashiruddin Mahmood, born in Amritsar in 1940, was a nuclear scientist who worked on Pakistan’s nuclear program but faced controversy for alleged ties to al-Qaeda and the Taliban, leading to his arrest in 2001. He was later released after authorities concluded he lacked the knowledge to transfer nuclear secrets. Chaudhry’s brother, Asim Mehmood, is a doctor, adding to the family’s professional diversity. Little is known about Chaudhry’s personal life, including his marital status or children, as he maintains a private profile.
Chaudhry’s family background, particularly his father’s controversial past, has drawn international attention, with some Indian media outlets criticizing his lineage during the 2025 tensions. Despite this, Chaudhry has focused on his professional duties, leveraging his family’s legacy of service to navigate his role effectively.
Legacy and Impact
Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry’s tenure as DG ISPR has been defined by his ability to navigate complex political and security challenges while maintaining the Pakistan Army’s public image. His historic appointment as the first EME Corps officer in this role reflects his unique blend of technical expertise and strategic communication skills. Through his leadership in ISPR, Chaudhry has addressed critical issues, from political controversies to regional conflicts, ensuring the military remains a trusted institution.
His handling of the 2025 India-Pakistan tensions, despite controversies, underscores his importance in shaping Pakistan’s defense narrative. Awarded the Sitara-e-Basalat for his engagements, Chaudhry continues to influence Pakistan’s public and military discourse, balancing national security imperatives with public communication challenges.
FAQs
Who is Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry?
Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry is a Lieutenant General in the Pakistan Army and the 22nd Director-General of ISPR since December 6, 2022, responsible for military communications.
What is ISPR?
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) is the media wing of the Pakistan Armed Forces, disseminating information on military operations and policies.
What is Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry’s background?
Born in the late 1960s in the Thal desert, Punjab, Chaudhry comes from a family with a scientific and military legacy. His father, Sultan Bashiruddin Mahmood, was a nuclear scientist.
What controversies has he been involved in?
In May 2024, his remarks demanding apologies from political groups sparked debate. In May 2025, his defense of Hafiz Abdur Rauf and comments on human rights activists drew criticism.
How has he contributed to recent events?
In May 2025, Chaudhry played a key role in responding to Indian airstrikes, defending Pakistan’s position and shaping its strategic media response during the India-Pakistan conflict.
Conclusion
Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry remains a pivotal figure in Pakistan’s military and public affairs. His leadership as DG ISPR, combined with his extensive education, technical expertise, and historic appointment, has positioned him as a trailblazer in the Pakistan Army. Through his strategic communication and resolute handling of national security issues, Chaudhry continues to shape Pakistan’s defense narrative during a critical period in its history.