The squadron is one of the oldest in the United States Air Force, its origins dating to 17 August 1917, when it was organized at Kelly Field, Texas.

The unit's combat mission is to support tactical air, ground and naval operations by confusing the enemy's defenses and disrupting its command and control capabilities.

To execute its missions, the aircraft were modified with electronic countermeasures systems, specialized jamming equipment, the capability for air refuelling, as well as upgraded engines and avionics.

Then in 1935, it was an observation squadron operating as part of the Air Corps Tactical School at Maxwell Field, Alabama.

Redesignated the 43rd Electronic Combat Squadron, the unit was activated 6 June 1986, at Sembach Air Base, Germany.