What department is in charge of strategic plans and research?

The department responsible for strategic plans and research is undeniably N5. This department is tasked with the long-term planning and strategic development related to policy, budget, and operational frameworks. N5 focuses on future planning initiatives, assessing operational needs for the Navy, and coordinating strategic objectives to align with overarching military goals. It plays a crucial role in resource allocation and ensures that strategic goals are continuously evaluated and updated to meet the changing environment and operational requirements.

In this context, assignments or tasks often related to current operations or administrative functions would fall under different departments like N1, which focuses on personnel, or N3, which deals with operations and training. N6, on the other hand, typically oversees communications and information technology. Thus, N5 stands apart as the key department dedicated to the formulation and analysis of strategic plans and research within the Navy structure.