Jack Ryan

Jack Ryan is an analyst for the CIA who lives in London with his wife and children. Though his training is in economics and history, he is often called in to consult the American and British governments about international military matters, particularly relating to the Soviet Union. Jack does not have extensive military training but he is often involved in secret military operations. His involvement with the Red October begins when he shows the surveillance photographs taken of the submarine by British intelligence. Jack is personally connected to most of the vital characters in the novel, including many of the British and American military and intelligence communities, as well as the computer genius, Skip Tyler. These personal connections allow him to act as messenger for very important missions.

Jack's concerns for his safety and the welfare of the United States are balanced by his concern for his...