NORFOLK, Va.—Submariners make up only 10 percent of the U.S. Navy’s personnel, but they play a critical role in carrying out one of the Defense Department’s most important missions: strategic deterrence. Seaman Dylan Yen, a Katy native, is one of the sailors continuing a 123-year tradition of service under the sea to help ensure America’s safety.

Yen joined the Navy nearly two years ago and today serves as a navigation electronics technician aboard USS Washington.

“I joined for the educational benefits and to make my grandfather proud,” said Yen. "He served in the Navy as well.”

Growing up in Katy, Yen attended Seven Lakes High School and graduated in 2020.

Skills and values similar to those found in Katy led to success in the military.

“I learned to keep going no matter how hard it gets, that things will always get better,” Yen said.

These lessons have helped Yen while serving in the Navy.

Known as America’s “Apex Predators!,” the Navy’s submarine force operates a large fleet of technically-advanced vessels. These submarines can conduct rapid defensive and offensive operations around the world, in furtherance of U.S. national security.

There are three basic types of submarines: fast-attack submarines (SSN), ballistic-missile submarines (SSBN) and guided-missile submarines (SSGN).

Fast-attack submarines are designed to hunt down and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships; strike targets ashore with cruise missiles; carry and deliver Navy SEALs; conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare. The Virginia-class SSN is the most advanced submarine in the world today. It combines stealth and payload capability to meet Combatant Commanders’ demands in this era of strategic competition.

The Navy’s ballistic-missile submarines, often referred to as “boomers,” serve as a strategic deterrent by providing an undetectable platform for submarine-launched ballistic missiles. SSBNs are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles. The Columbia-class SSBN will be the largest, most capable and most advanced submarine produced by the U.S.—replacing the current Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarines to ensure continuous sea-based strategic deterrence into the 2080s.

Guided-missile submarines provide the Navy with unprecedented strike and special operation mission capabilities from a stealthy, clandestine platform. Each SSGN is capable of carrying 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, plus a complement of heavyweight torpedoes to be fired through four torpedo tubes.

“Our mission remains timeless—to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level,” Adm. Mike Gilday, chief of naval operations, said. “This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy.”

Strategic deterrence is the nation’s ultimate insurance program, according to Navy officials. As a member of the submarine force, Yen is part of a rich history of the U.S. Navy’s most versatile weapons platform, capable of taking the fight to the enemy in the defense of America and its allies.

Serving in the Navy means Yen is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on strengthening alliances, modernizing capabilities, increasing capacities and maintaining military readiness.

“The Navy protects our coasts and patrols the seas to deter threats to the United States and our allies,” Yen said.

With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to trained sailors and a strong Navy.

Yen and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.

“I'm proud of graduating my job training course because it was challenging,” Yen said. “Finishing proved that I'm here for a purpose, and not just wasting my time in the Navy.”

As a member of the Navy, Yen is part of a world-class organization focused on maintaining maritime dominance, strengthening partnerships, increasing competitive warfighting capabilities and sustaining combat-ready forces.

“Serving in the Navy means being part of a bigger family,” Yen said. “I was in the marching band in high school. It was a big team, but compared to the Navy, it was small. Many people have my back here, and it makes you feel safe.”

Yen is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I'm so grateful to my family who encouraged me along the way and all the friends I've made while serving in the Navy,” Yen said.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Brittany Crocker is an ensign in the Navy. Terah Bryant is a chief mass communication specialist in the Navy.