The NATO Stock Number (NSN) system is a standardized classification used by NATO member countries to identify and track supply items.
NSN Structure
An NSN consists of 13 digits: a 4-digit Federal Supply Class (FSC) followed by a 9-digit National Item Identification Number (NIIN).
- First 4 digits: Federal Supply Class (FSC) β categorizes the item type
- Next 2 digits: NATO country code of the originating nation
- Last 7 digits: Unique item identification number
Benefits of NSN Tracking
Using NSNs speeds up procurement, ensures part interoperability across allied forces, and reduces inventory management overhead. Most military and government contracts require NSN identification for all supplied parts.
