About this Unit
Marine Air Control Squadron 2 (MACS-2) is a United States Marine Corps aviation command and control unit that was originally commissioned in 1944 during World War II. The unit played a significant role in providing air surveillance and early warning throughout the Pacific campaign. During the Cold War and subsequent conflicts, MACS-2 continued to evolve, supporting operations in Korea, Vietnam, and the Middle East with advanced radar and air traffic control capabilities. Today, MACS-2 remains a vital component of the Marine Air Control Group, delivering expeditionary command and control for Marine aviation and enhancing the Corps’ operational effectiveness worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Founding and World War II: Marine Air Control Squadron 2 (MACS-2) was originally activated on January 1, 1944, as Air Warning Squadron 12 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina.
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Pacific Theater Operations: The unit participated in the Pacific campaign during WWII, providing early warning and air defense coordination for Allied forces, including actions in the Philippines and Okinawa.
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Name Changes: The squadron has undergone several redesignations, including Marine Ground Control Intercept Squadron 2 (MGCIS-2) in 1946 and finally Marine Air Control Squadron 2 (MACS-2) in 1954.
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Korean War Service: MACS-2 was deployed to Korea in 1950, where it played a critical role in air defense and airspace management operations during the Korean conflict.
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Cold War Innovations: During the Cold War, MACS-2 was involved in the development and deployment of advanced radar and air control systems, including the TPS-34 and TPS-59 radars.
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Desert Storm Deployment: The unit deployed to Southwest Asia during Operation Desert Storm in 1990-1991, providing tactical air operations control and early warning for coalition air forces.
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Iraq and Afghanistan Support: Since 2003, MACS-2 has supported Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, controlling allied airspace and providing air surveillance and control for coalition operations.
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Global Deployments: MACS-2 has participated in numerous exercises and operations worldwide, including in Japan, Norway, and the Mediterranean, supporting both training and real-world contingencies.
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Modern Capabilities: Today, MACS-2 operates advanced air command and control systems such as the AN/TPS-59 radar, providing long-range air surveillance, missile warning, and air traffic control.
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Motto and Legacy: The squadron’s motto, “Eyes of the MAGTF,” reflects its critical role in providing situational awareness and airspace control for the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) and its enduring legacy of operational excellence.
