Panagarh Airfield was constructed by the British during the World War Il as part of the allied forces war effort in Eastern India. During 1971 operations this Air Base was extensively used by the Hunter Squadron. After 1971 war, with the creation of Bangladesh and change in political scenario on Eastern borders, Panagarh Air Base was vacated by IAF and handed over to National Airport Authority. However, to safeguard IAF interests, Air Force Station Kalaikunda was tasked to man a detachment at this location and protect the assets. In addition, this airfield is also considered as diversion for aircraft operating from Kalaikunda Base. In 1986, this base was again formally reclaimed from National Airport Authority by the IAF when they were looking for setting a tropo Units in this region as part of ADGES Network in EAC. Construction of Air Force station Panagarh began in 1986 and was completed in 1991. On establishment of Air Force station, Panagarh, Air Force Station Kalaikunda (Detachment) was converted to a full fledged Unit with 763 SU as lodger unit. On 1 Dec 2012, Panagarh Airfield unit (PAU) was formed as independent station in place of 5 Wing Dett. 353 TRU was formed on 7 oct 2012 and 31 Wing was raised on 17 october 2016.