The United States Navy established the Cryptologic Technician Networks (CTN) rating in February 2004—the first new Navy rating of the 21st century—to develop a workforce focused on computer network defense and operations and to advance the transformation of information operations. Effective Feb. 6, 2004, CTN consolidated network-related responsibilities previously held by the Cryptologic Technician (Communications), (Maintenance), and (Administration) ratings, which were subsequently collapsed and disestablished as Sailors transitioned to CTN.

To better meet evolving cyber mission requirements, the Navy later created the Cyber Warfare Technician (CWT) rating. As directed by the National Defense Authorization Act signed on Dec. 23, 2022, the CTN rating was redesignated as CWT—Cyber Warfare Technician—effective June 23, 2023, in accordance with NAVADMIN 147/23.

According to Navy Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL), CWTs employ strategic, operational, and tactical capabilities to plan, develop, and execute Defensive and Offensive Cyberspace Operations (DCO/OCO). Their duties include cyberspace threat hunting and analysis, digital forensics, network and host exploitation, research and development, mission planning, and the execution of cyberspace effects. CWTs also integrate information and intelligence to identify, report, and respond to global threats in support of Special Operations Forces, Fleet, National, and Joint requirements, while safeguarding classified information and information systems. Additionally, the Department of the Navy offers free Red Hat training through the Red Hat II Enterprise Marketplace Program. This initiative allows eligible personnel to complete Red Hat training and attempt up to five Red Hat certification exams at no cost. The program is funded through January 2027.

The badge design was selected from submissions by the community it represents; the winning original design was created by CTN2 Kennedy Bullard. It serves to visually distinguish the cyber warfare community from the broader cryptologic field.