 Originally formed as a mobile unit, the station was moved to its permanent base at Ash Island in September 1942.The almost-impenetrable concrete igloo buildings, based on a British underground bunker design, were constructed aboveground by mid-1943 and were used to house the advanced technology needed to detect approaching enemy aircraft.The 131 Radar Station (former) is also significant for its association with the RAAF and WAAAF officers who served at the station during its active service.