The museum is dedicated to those who have employed their talents in advancing naval aviation research, development, testing, and evaluation.

In late 1974, a steering group was formed, which prepared the necessary incorporating papers and bylaws, and introduced legislation to the Maryland General Assembly.

On 14 March 1975, the Naval Air Test and Evaluation Museum (NATEM) Association was approved and established as a non-profit, tax exempt organization in the State of Maryland.

In 1976, the Navy provided the current building and grounds in Lexington Park, Maryland, and the museum opened its doors to the public in July 1978.

[3][4] In 2015, the museum acquired a mural that had been on display at the officer’s club of the neighboring naval air station.