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31 Squadron AF and 9 Base Repair Depot of Indian Air Force based at Pune were accorded Presidential Standard and Colors at the hands of Honorable President Pratibha Devisingh Patil in Pune on 8th January, 2011. Here is a brief history of these two units on this glorious occasion.
 Defending our country's air space is a daunting task. Whether it is during any war or peacetime, the units of Indian Air Force are always on guard at frontiers and within the country. Internal security taking center stage equally like the border security, the Air Force is at a far more advantage to strike the enemy at a short notice. To maintain its preparedness for this, the 31 Squadron and 9 Base Repair Depot of the Force situated at Pune are painstakingly taking efforts post independence. And their importance has grown multifold considering the changing scenario as regard to our country's preparedness to fight anti-national forces.
On this backdrop, it was a historical moment for the 31 Squadron and 9 Base Repair Depot when they were awarded 'Presidential Standard and Colours' at an impressive ceremony at the Lohgaon Airforce Base, Pune.
 Proudly called 'LIONS' the 31 Squadron AF is a premiere frontline fighter squadron of the Indian Air Force. Its journey began in 1963 with French Mystere aircraft and has continued for over four decades whilst operating Marut, MIG 23 BN and SU-30 MKI. The squadron has taken active part in the 1965, 1971 wars and Kargil conflict. It is presently operating the majestic SU-30 MKI aircraft, which is aptly referred to as an Air Dominance Fighter. The unit undertakes air defence missions as well as training of pilots on the aircraft. The motto of the 31 Squadron is 'Shatrum Chhidrey Praharet' meaning 'Kill with Every Blow'.
The history of 9 Base Repair Depot goes back to 1957. It was then called as the Base Signals Repair Unit. It acquired the hangers and buildings of the then Tata Airlines to begin its work of servicing equipments and signal systems for the Force. It was redesigned to become BRD in 1966.
Today the Depot repairs a vast range of equipment such as Radio Navigation Aids, Airfield Support and Avionic Equipment. The Depot has embarked on modernization of infrastructure, setting up of new repair lines and qualitative upgrade in the living conditions of Air Warriors. Kudos to more than four decades of service to the nation by these units, which have undertaken numerous missions in war as well as peace.
The dedication of its men and their spirit has always been an asset to the IAF. They have at all times kept the flag of the IAF flying high.
Manoj Kshirsagar, AIR NRT, Pune
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