The squadron was formed at Guadalcanal in August 1943 and comprised all the RNZAF radar units sent overseas.

In January 1943 the Americans were short on ground based radar equipment in the pacific and asked New Zealand to supply one of theirs.

The system was operational by 21 March and over the coming months further radar units (No.s 53–59) were formed and deployed to the Pacific.

By mid 1944 the radar units were no longer necessary due to the effective elimination of Japanese air power in the Solomons.

As most of the RNZAF men had completed their tours of duty and American radar equipment and personnel in the Pacific was deemed adequate, No.