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CWT Rating Badge

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Effective 29 June 2023, the Cryptologic Technician Networks (CTN) rating transitioned to the Cyber Warfare Technician (CWT) rating. This change established a dedicated enlisted cyber warfare rating aligned with the Navy's evolving cyberspace mission and applied to all former CTNs across the Active and Reserve Components.
The establishment of the CWT rating reflects the Navy's continued commitment to developing a highly skilled cyber workforce capable of supporting Fleet, Joint, and National objectives across the full spectrum of cyberspace operations.
For additional information regarding the establishment of the CWT rating, please refer to NAVADMIN 147/23 and the fact sheet with information regarding the establishment of the CWT rating.

About the CWT Community

Cyber Warfare Technicians (CWTs) are the Navy's enlisted experts in cyberspace operations, delivering offensive and defensive cyber capabilities in support of Fleet, Joint, and National objectives. Serving throughout the Information Warfare Community, CWTs operate across tactical, operational, and strategic environments, supporting cyberspace operations, mission planning, capability development, training, and leadership.

As technology continues to evolve, CWTs remain at the forefront of protecting national interests in the cyber domain. Their expertise enables commanders to gain and maintain information advantage while supporting operations around the globe. Whether assigned to operational commands, development organizations, training activities, or joint organizations, CWTs play a vital role in strengthening the Navy's warfighting capability and maintaining cyberspace superiority.

The CWT rating offers a diverse range of career opportunities that challenge Sailors to continuously develop advanced technical expertise, operational proficiency, and leadership skills. Through specialized assignments, advanced education, and professional development programs, CWTs are uniquely positioned to shape the future of Navy cyberspace operations while serving as trusted professionals within the Information Warfare Community.

 

 

Community Programs

The CWT community offers a variety of career opportunities that allow Sailors to broaden their experience, develop specialized skills, and directly contribute to Navy and Joint cyberspace operations. Many of these programs require competitive screening and careful career planning. Sailors interested in pursuing these opportunities are encouraged to communicate with their detailer early to ensure they remain competitive and understand program requirements.

Interactive On-Net Operator (ION)

The Interactive On-Net Operator (ION) program remains one of the CWT community's most demanding and rewarding career opportunities. Sailors selected for ION complete a rigorous training pipeline and become highly trained operators supporting national-level cyberspace operations.
Sailors interested in screening for the ION pipeline should contact their CWT Detailer 15 to 18 months prior to their Projected Rotation Date (PRD) to allow sufficient time for screening and coordination before entering their negotiation window.
An ePAR/1306 routed through the chain of command is required to request screening. If approved, follow-on instructions will be provided by the CWT Detailer and the program office.
Following successful completion of training, Sailors earning H13A through H16A NECs are required to complete a minimum of two consecutive ION utilization tours in support of Fleet requirements.
General Training Pipeline
  • Marine Corps Cyber Operations Readiness Curriculum (MCCORC) – 8 Weeks
  • Basic Offensive Cyberspace Operator (BOCO) – Approximately 6 Months (H41A NEC)
  • Foundational Operator Readiness and Enrichment (FORGE) – Approximately 11 Months (H41B NEC)
*The MCCORC requirement may be waived based on course availability. Operator NECs H41B are earned through follow-on qualification.*

Cyber Mission Force (CMF)

Cyber Mission Force assignments provide CWT Sailors the opportunity to conduct cyberspace operations in direct support of U.S. Cyber Command, Fleet Cyber Command, Combatant Commands, and Joint mission partners. These assignments are highly competitive and provide valuable operational experience supporting national objectives.

Naval Cyber Warfare Development Group (NCWDG)

NCWDG develops, tests, and refines advanced cyber capabilities supporting Fleet and Joint missions. Assignments provide unique opportunities for capability development, innovation, advanced tactics, and operational problem solving.

Joint Cyber Operations Group (JCOG)

JCOG assignments provide opportunities to support specialized cyberspace operations alongside Joint and interagency partners.


Advanced Education & Professional Development

The CWT community is committed to developing technically proficient and strategically minded cyber professionals. These programs provide Sailors opportunities to expand their knowledge, broaden their experience, and prepare for positions of increased responsibility while strengthening the Navy's cyber workforce.

Naval Postgraduate School Master of Science in Applied Cyber Operations (MACO)

MACO provides highly qualified CWT Sailors with the opportunity to earn a fully funded graduate degree while developing advanced technical and operational expertise in cyberspace operations.  Graduates return to the Fleet with enhanced technical knowledge, operational perspective, and leadership skills that strengthen mission readiness across the Information Warfare Community. This program is ideal for Sailors seeking to deepen their technical expertise while preparing for future leadership and operational assignments.  Additional information, eligibility requirements, and application guidance can be found through the link below.

Secretary of the Navy Tours with Industry (SNTWI)

SNTWI provides selected Sailors the opportunity to work alongside leading private-sector organizations for up to one year. Participants gain firsthand experience with industry best practices, emerging technologies, innovation, leadership, and business processes before returning to the Fleet.
The knowledge and experience gained through SNTWI enables Sailors to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions back to the Navy, helping improve processes, strengthen partnerships, and advance the Navy's cyber capabilities.  Additional information, eligibility requirements, and application guidance can be found through the link below.

Leadership Development

The CWT community offers several opportunities for Sailors to further develop their leadership abilities while sharing their technical expertise across the Information Warfare Community and the Fleet.

Navy Information Warfare Advanced Weapons School (NIWAWS) – Warfare Tactics Instructor (WTI)

The Navy Information Warfare (IW) Warfare Tactics Instructor (WTI) program centers on maximizing combat effectiveness through support to fleet exercises, fleet experimentation, codification of tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), and adherence to a strict professional ethos. The Navy Information Warfare Advanced Weapons School (NIWAWS) conducts two WTI courses each year for eligible E-7 through E-9 candidates.
Graduates return to the Fleet as tactical experts and trusted advisors who improve warfighting readiness through advanced planning, mentorship, and the integration of Information Warfare capabilities into Fleet operations.

Instructor and Leadership Opportunities

Throughout a CWT career, Sailors may compete for instructor duty, Recruit Division Commander (RDC), recruiting, leadership positions, and other special assignments that broaden professional experience while developing the next generation of Cyber Warfare Technicians. These opportunities allow Sailors to strengthen their leadership skills, share operational expertise, and make lasting contributions to the future of the rating.

CWT Navy Enlisted Classifications (NECs)

Navy Enlisted Classifications (NECs) identify specialized skills, training, and operational qualifications within the CWT community. Maintaining accurate NECs in your service record is essential for career development, detailing, and assignment to billets requiring specialized expertise. The following NECs represent key qualifications currently used throughout the CWT community.

Please review NEC Information if you do NOT have an NEC reflected accurately in your MyNavyAssignment profile.

Community Resources

Whether you are planning your next assignment, pursuing professional development, or looking to stay informed on community initiatives, the following resources provide valuable information to support your career throughout every stage of your service.

Community Contacts

CWT Senior Enlisted Detailer (E6–E9): Responsible for career management and detailing of E-6 through E-9 Sailors.
CWT Junior Enlisted Detailer (E1–E5): Responsible for career management and detailing of E-3 through E-5 Sailor with the exception of new accession Sailors.
Technical Advisor (TECHAD/ECM): Responsible for community health, force structure, strategic planning, and long-term enlisted community management.

From the Detailer Desk

The strength of the CWT community has always been its people. Every day, CWT Sailors deliver critical cyber capabilities that directly support the Fleet, Joint Force, and our Nation. Whether you're preparing for your first operational assignment, pursuing advanced education, competing for one of our many special programs, or planning for retirement, our team is committed to helping you make informed career decisions while balancing the needs of the Fleet.

Your career is ultimately yours to own. Whether you're preparing for your first set of orders or approaching retirement, taking ownership of your career starts with staying informed.  Keep your record current, continue developing your technical and leadership skills, communicate early with your detailer, and take advantage of the opportunities available throughout the community. We are proud to serve alongside you and remain committed to placing the right Sailor in the right billet while supporting your professional growth throughout every stage of your Navy career.

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