MINISTER OF NATIONAL DEFENSE 

Pedro Arnulfo Sánchez Suárez

Former officer of the Colombian Aerospace Force, where he served for 35 years and reached the rank of Major General. With 6,700 flight hours in helicopters and airplanes, he held senior positions in strategic operations, security and defense. Throughout his career, he played a key role in the protection of the State and within the framework of the country's air and space military doctrine.

Experience:

-Chief of Presidential Protection. Responsible for the security of President Gustavo Petro, his family, the families of the vice president, as well as senior officials of the National Government.

-Commander of the Joint Special Operations Command.

-Chief of Staff and Second Commander of the Joint Special Operations Command.

-Commander of the Air Combat Command No. 4.

-Second Commander and Chief of Staff of the Air Combat Command No. 5.

-Director of the Center for Air and Space Doctrine.

-Deputy Director of enlistment of the Colombian Aerospace Force.

-Commander of the CACOM-5 Command and Control Center.

-Commander of the 511th Fighter Squadron.

-Commander of the Operation Esperanza, which led to the successful rescue of four indigenous children lost in the rain forest for 40 days.

Studies and education:

-Business Administrator - School of Business Administration (EAN).

-Master in Strategic and Prospective Thinking - Externado University of Colombia.

-Master's Degree in Strategic Studies - Air University, United States Air Force.

-Master in National Security and Defense - Superior School of War.

-Specializations and diplomas in Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law, as well as in the field of air and space military arts and science.

-Higher Business Management Programs – Inalde Business School.

-Negotiation Courses - Universidad de los Andes.

Awards and decorations

-Minister Sánchez has received multiple distinctions for his service and leadership, including:

-Cruz de Boyacá.

-Distinguished Service Medal in Public Order.

-Military Medal for Valor.

-Air Force Cross for Aeronautical Merit.

-Order of Military Merit Antonio Nariño.

-Among other national and international decorations.

Publications and contributions   

Author of various military doctrine documents and articles in national and international specialized magazines, addressing issues such as military leadership, defense strategy, military strategy, military power, air power, special operations and national identity.