Force requirement number (FRN)

Definition

The Force Requirement Number (FRN) in military operations refers to a unique number assigned to a unit or asset that signifies a specific requirement within a larger force structure. The FRN is utilized for managing, planning and tracking military resources. It helps guide allocation and deployment of forces in the strategic planning process.

Key Takeaways

1. The Force Requirement Number (FRN) is a unique, alphanumeric identifier assigned to a specific unit or resource included in a force allocation.
2. FRN is used for management and tracking purposes, ensuring a systematic organization and deployment of military resources during operations.
3. The assignment of an FRN allows for effective planning, transparency, and accountability in the mobilization and utilization of military forces during both peace time and conflict scenarios.

Importance

The military operations term: Force Requirement Number (FRN) is important as it serves as a unique identifier for a specific capability or set of capabilities required to accomplish a specific task or mission.

It represents a specific unit or type of military asset, which implies particular capabilities necessary to accomplish a mission.

This number is part of operations planning and resource allocation procedures, ensuring a systematic approach to organizing and assigning required forces for different defense operations.

Thus, it’s crucial for effective and synchronized military planning and deployment.

Explanation

The force requirement number (FRN) is a crucial component in military operations, primarily because it drives the allocation of resources, equipment, and manpower to various units or operations that are in need. Essentially, it assists in managing the distribution of assets in a methodical and organized manner with the main goal of achieving mission readiness at all times.

FRN helps to avoid unnecessary overlaps or shortages in resources, enhancing the efficiency of defense operations. Moreover, FRN aids in strategic planning and helps maintain a well-informed and updated readiness status across different levels of military command.

It ties in with strategic force requirements, planning and decision making about priorities for different operations. Thus, it is a pivotal tool in laying out operational plans and ensures strategic objectives are met with the available resources.

Therefore, understanding the concept of FRN is significant for military personnel involved in resource planning or strategic decision-making positions.

Examples of Force requirement number (FRN)

Operation Desert Storm: In this Gulf War operation that took place in 1991, the U.S and coalition forces fought against Iraq. The FRN was utilized in planning the operation, with force requirement numbers determining the number of troops and amount of equipment necessary to maintain operational objectives and operational tempo.

NATO Defense Planning Process: NATO uses Force Requirement Numbers to project needed assets among its member nations. For instance, during the enlargement of NATO in Eastern Europe, FRNs were used to identify the level of military forces each new member state would need to meet NATO’s collective requirements.

U.S Army Unit Deployment: FRN is often applied when the U.S army deploys its forces. For example, when the U.S deployed forces to Afghanistan, force requirement numbers were used to gauge the number of soldiers, type of equipment, the logistic, and support needed to successfully carry out the mission.

Frequently Asked Questions about Force Requirement Number (FRN)

1. What is a Force Requirement Number (FRN)?

A Force Requirement Number (FRN) is a precursor to the Time-Phased Force Deployment Data (TPFDD). It’s the number attached to each group of forces or resources allocated for a mission in a military operation.

2. What is the role of an FRN in military operations?

An FRN is a unique identifier used to track and manage the planning, deployment, and redeployment of forces and resources for military operations.

3. How is an FRN coded?

The coding for an FRN can vary based on the context of the military operation. Often, it incorporates a variety of information including the type of resource, the intended mission, and priority.

4. Are FRNs used in all military operations?

Yes, FRN is a fundamental aspect of military operations, used across different contexts and missions to track and manage force deployments.

5. How does an FRN relate to the Joint Operation Planning Execution System (JOPES)?

FRN is one of the major data elements within JOPES. It’s used in the TPFDD to specify “what” needs to be moved to cover a certain requirement in the operation planning and execution system.

Related Military Operation Terms

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Sources for More Information

• U.S. Department of Defense – An official website of the U.S. government providing information on defense-related topics, including military operations.
• NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) – An international alliance that consists of 30 member states from North America and Europe where you might find information on the Force Requirement Number (FRN).
• RAND Corporation – A research organization that develops solutions to public policy challenges to help make communities throughout the world safer and more secure.
• U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) – An independent, nonpartisan agency that works for Congress, often called the “congressional watchdog,” and investigates how the federal government spends taxpayer dollars.