Step 1: Understanding variable mass system.
This is a variable mass problem where sand is added to a moving truck. External force is required to maintain constant velocity due to momentum change.
Step 2: Convert mass flow rate into SI units.
\[
24 \, \text{kg min}^{-1} = \frac{24}{60} = 0.4 \, \text{kg s}^{-1}
\]
Step 3: Concept of force in variable mass system.
Force required is given by:
\[
F = \frac{dm}{dt} \cdot v
\]
since incoming sand has zero horizontal velocity initially.
Step 4: Substitute values.
\[
F = 0.4 \times 15
\]
\[
F = 6 \, \text{N}
\]
Step 5: Physical interpretation.
The force is required to accelerate incoming sand from 0 to 15 m/s, hence external force is needed.
Step 6: Final conclusion.
Therefore,
\[
\boxed{6 \, \text{N}}
\]