The squadron is responsible for the planning, receiving, coordination and processing of requests for direct or close air support.

It functions in a decentralized mode of operation, but is directly supervised by the Marine or Navy Tactical Air Command Center.

In January 1948, MTACS-1 participated in the Seconds Fleet Tactical Exercises at Vieques, Puerto Rico returning on March 20, 1948.

In May 1956, MASS-1 deployed to the Dominican Republic and provided air support for Operation Power Pack by carrying out its duties as controlling agency for rotary and fixed wing aircraft.

During the 1990s, the squadron was twice designated as the Marine Air Command and Control Systems Unit of the Year, receiving the prestigious "Edward S. Fris Award" in both 1992 and 1998.

MASS-1 leads the Marine Air Command and Control community as an innovator, qualifying the first DASC data link specialists (JICO/AJOC), developing enlisted controllers who are also qualified to operate from U.S. Navy ships, and integrating live/virtual/constructive training networks into their garrison facility.