Glossary
National Stock Number (NSN)
Tags: Glossary
A 13-digit numeric code identifies all the 'standardized material items of supply' as recognized by the United States Department of Defense. Pursuant to the NATO Standardization Agreements (STANAGs), the NSN has come to be used in all treaty countries, where it is also known as a NATO Stock Number. Many countries that use the NSN program are not members of NATO, such as Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. A two-digit Material Management Aggregation Code (MMAC) suffix may also be appended to denote asset end use, but it is not considered part of the NSN. An item having an NSN is said to be 'stock-listed.
What is National Stock Number (NSN)?
The National Stock Number (NSN) is a 13-digit numeric code that serves as a unique identifier for standardized material items of supply. This code is recognized by the United States Department of Defense and is used to categorize and track various items used by the military.
The NSN was established as part of the NATO Standardization Agreements (STANAGs) and has since been adopted by many countries around the world. In these countries, the NSN is also known as a NATO Stock Number. It is important to note that the NSN program is not limited to NATO member countries. Non-NATO countries such as Japan, Australia, and New Zealand also utilize the NSN system.
The purpose of the NSN is to provide a standardized method of identifying and classifying items of supply. By using a unique numeric code, it becomes easier to track and manage inventory across different organizations and countries. This helps to streamline logistics operations and ensure efficient supply chain management.
The NSN consists of 13 digits, with each digit serving a specific purpose. The first four digits, known as the Federal Supply Classification Group (FSCG), identify the general category or class of the item. The next two digits, known as the Federal Supply Group (FSG), provide further classification within the FSCG. The following nine digits, known as the National Item Identification Number (NIIN), provide a unique identification for the specific item.
In some cases, a two-digit Material Management Aggregation Code (MMAC) suffix may be appended to the NSN. This suffix denotes the asset end use of the item. However, it is important to note that the MMAC suffix is not considered part of the NSN itself.
When an item is assigned an NSN, it is said to be "stock-listed." This means that the item is recognized and cataloged within the NSN system, making it easier to locate and procure when needed. The NSN also facilitates interoperability between different military forces, as it provides a common language for identifying and requesting specific items.
In conclusion, the National Stock Number (NSN) is a 13-digit numeric code used to identify standardized material items of supply. It is recognized by the United States Department of Defense and is used in many countries around the world. The NSN helps to streamline logistics operations, improve supply chain management, and promote interoperability between different military forces.