CWTCyber Warfare Technician(CWT Navy Rating)
Cyber Warfare Technicians (formerly Cryptologic Technician Networks / CTN) conduct offensive and defensive cyber operations. CWTs perform network exploitation, vulnerability analysis, digital forensics, and signals intelligence. They work in highly classified environments with cutting-edge tools.
Rating history: In June 2023, the Navy disestablished the Cryptologic Technician – Networks (CTN) rating and redesignated all CTN billets and personnel as Cyber Warfare Technician (CWT) per NAVADMIN 147/23. The rename was directed by the FY23 National Defense Authorization Act. The change reflected the evolution of the job: CTNs historically operated and maintained computer networks, but CWTs also defend networks from cyberattacks, develop cyberwarfare tools, and conduct offensive cyber operations. All advancement opportunity, Selective Reenlistment Bonus (SRB), and rating-specific incentive pays carried over.
Overall
Quick Stats
Security Clearance
Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information~$15K–$50K civilian sector value
Requires a Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI), including interviews with references, financial review, and a possible polygraph. The process typically takes 6–12 months and is initiated during your training pipeline.
ASVAB Requirements
AFQT Minimum
50
Line-score options — meet any one
- AR+2MK+GS≥239
- AR+MK+MC+VE≥239
Who This Is Best For
Best for analytical thinkers passionate about cybersecurity who enjoy complex problem-solving in high-stakes environments. One of the highest-demand, highest-paying transition paths in the entire Navy — civilian cybersecurity roles routinely start at $90K–$130K for former CWTs. Ideal for self-driven individuals who want elite training, a TS/SCI clearance, and post-Navy career options that rival any enlisted rate.
+Pros
- ✓Strong civilian career transition
–Cons
- ✗Long A-school pipeline
Real Opinions
+Positive
“CWT is the best kept secret in the Navy. TS/SCI clearance plus actual cyber experience equals easy six figures on the outside.”
“A-school is long and challenging but worth every minute. The work is genuinely interesting.”
Page 1 of 3
Share your opinion about CWT
0 charsRecruiter vs Reality
What the recruiter says vs. what it's actually like.
🫡 Recruiter says
“You'll be doing real cyber warfare operations from day one”
💀 Reality
Source: r/navyA-school is long and academically intense. Many wash out. Even after graduating, junior CWTs spend significant time on quals and watch before doing offensive ops.
🫡 Recruiter says
“CWT has the best bonuses in the Navy”
💀 Reality
Source: Navy recruiting dataBonuses are real but come with longer contract obligations. The TS/SCI clearance process can take 6-12 months and some people get denied.
Page 1 of 8
Horror Stories
Real stories people have shared about this rate. Swipe to browse.
“CWT sailors trained for offensive cyber operations are regularly assigned to passive network monitoring or IT helpdesk functions. Hours of staring at screens. Although the people were amazing there was a general fog of depression shared by everyone.”
Story 1 of 4
Share a horror story about CWT
0 charsRelated Reading
Guides on picking a rate, ASVAB, bonuses, promotion, and life after the Navy.
Getting Started
How do you choose the right Navy rate for you?
Choosing a Navy rate means weighing your ASVAB scores, lifestyle preferences, civilian career goals, and willingness to deploy or go to sea. Start by identifying which ratings you qualify for, then narrow the list by what matters most to you.
Getting Started
What is the ASVAB and what scores do you need?
The ASVAB is a multi-aptitude test that determines which Navy ratings you qualify for. Your sub-test scores combine into line scores, and each rating has minimum line-score requirements. Higher scores open more options.
Career & Pay
Which Navy rates have the biggest enlistment bonuses in 2026?
Active Component (Active Duty) only. Per the CNRC GENADMIN dated 24 July 2026, the biggest source-rate bonus is $40,000 — Nuclear Field on FY26 ship dates ($75,000 EB cap). Special Warfare Boat Operator (SB) follows at $35,000, then EOD and SEAL (SO) at $30,000, and Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR) and Cryptologic Technician Maintenance (CTM) at $25,000. Special Operations Future Sailors who clear the elevated PST standards add a flat $20,000 EBPST. Most rates cap at $50,000 total EB. The Loan Repayment Program adds up to $65,000 on top, separately. Reserve component (SELRES) bonuses are governed by a different message and are not covered here.
