It was formed in 1965 and was abolished in 1994, its role (excluding the Royal Fleet Auxiliary) being taken over by the Naval Bases and Supply Agency.

[1] The RNSTS was responsible for the maintenance, distribution and clerical oversight of all forms of stores between depot and ship.

On 21 October 1982, following the conclusion of the Falklands operation, Sir Frank Cooper, PUS, sent a message to DGST(N) including "...I would like you to convey to all members of the RNSTS, including the RFA,...my sincere appreciation of their considerable efforts.

The tasks that fell to them were undertaken with a vigour, dedication and willingness which deserves the highest praise.

After some 30 years in being (it was formed from the separate Directorates of Stores, Victualling, Armament Supply and Movements in 1965) the RNSTS ceased to be on absorption into the Naval Bases and Supply Agency (part of the Naval Support Command) on 1 April 1994.