What does the acronym NSN stand for in Materiel Management?

The acronym NSN stands for National Stock Number in Materiel Management. This term is crucial in supply chain operations and logistics because it identifies items that are purchased, stocked, or managed through the Department of Defense (DoD) supply system. An NSN provides a unique identifier for a specific item, allowing for accurate tracking, inventory management, and procurement processes across various branches of the military and government agencies.

The National Stock Number system ensures that all materials and supplies are classified properly, so personnel can efficiently locate and manage the correct items needed for operations. It streamlines the ordering and replenishment processes by standardizing item identification, which ultimately contributes to operational readiness and efficiency in materiel management.