The squadron was formed as a ground attack squadron on 1 September 1963, as part of the expansion of the Indian Air Force in the aftermath of the
1962 War with China. Upon establishment, the squadron was equipped with
Mystère fighter-bombers.
Indo-Pakistan War of 1965 In the
1965 War with Pakistan, the Lions, commanded by Wing Commander W.M. Goodman, operated from Pathankot and were assigned to fly missions against various ground targets in the sector. On 9 September, two No. 31 Squadron aircraft flew a photo recon and strike mission between Kasur and Raiwind. They attacked a train transporting tanks to the front-line, destroying twenty of them. The Lions also attacked and destroyed a tank and heavy gun concentration at Chawinda. Most of the squadron's missions were led by the Goodman, and he was awarded the
Maha Vir Chakra for conspicuous gallantry, leadership, and professional skill, while another pilot was awarded a Vir Chakra for these missions. ==Aircraft==