Developed from the T-33 Shooting Star, the two-place F-94 was the first American all-weather jet interceptor and the first U.S. production jet to have an afterburner. The large radar in the nose permitted the observer in the rear seat to locate an enemy aircraft at night or in poor weather. The pilot then flew the Starfire into proper position for an attack based upon the observer's radar indications.

During its service in the 1950s, the F-94 operated primarily in the defense of the United States against Soviet bomber attack, flying with USAF and Air National Guard units. During the Korean War, the USAF replaced the propeller-driven F-82 Twin Mustang with the more capable Starfire. In 1951 F-94s started flying in defense of Japanese air space, and the next year Starfires began flying night bomber escort and air defense missions from bases in Korea.

The F-94A on exhibit was transferred from the active inventory to the museum in May 1957.