What is NATO Codification?
The NATO Codification System (NCS) is the world-wide standard for identification of military and civilian government items of supply using NATO Stock Numbers (NSNs). It is
a uniform and common system for the identification, classification and stock numbering of items of supply, used by all NATO countries. It provides item names, suppliers
details and part numbers, and characteristics data required in all phases of logistics, from procurement through to disposal. The system offers linkage between NSNs and
other classification systems and is a common language of supply that promotes tri-service and equipment interoperability within the UK MOD and amongst NATO nations,
preventing duplication within the supply chain. The NCS documents technical data, descriptions and applicability for every item of supply and allocates a NATO Stock Number
based upon form, fit and function. This information is stored on the Codification Support Information System (CSIS) and includes details of manufacturer, supplier, and other
relevant information such as whether the item is Airworthy certificated to ensure adequate Provenance & Traceability (P & T) for use in Aircraft applications.The NATO
Codification System is used by the Army, Navy and Royal Air force with all items of supply going through the military supply chain, NATO codified. A 13-digit NATO stock
number (NSN) is allocated to each item, which is used to identify it throughout the supply chain. NSNs are catalogued on the CSIS database.