SERENA BROTHERTON

Serena Brotherton joined BRNC Dartmouth in 2003 after studying Economics and Politics at Queen’s University Belfast, where her naval ambitions began in the Royal Naval Reserve at HMS Caroline. She earned her Wings as an Airborne Surveillance and Control Observer in 2006 following flying training at RNAS Culdrose.

 

She spent four years on frontline operations with 849 NAS B Flight and 857 NAS, deploying worldwide on RN and RFA platforms and later to Camp Bastion for Operation HERRICK 10 as a Tactical Mission Commander. After qualifying as a Qualified Observer Instructor in 2010, she returned to 849 NAS to train ab‑initio observers.

In 2013 Serena became a Helicopter Warfare Instructor and re‑joined 857 NAS, deploying on multiple HERRICK tours before supporting Operation KIPION in the Arabian Gulf. Her work with CTF 50 earned her a Joint Commander’s Commendation in 2015. She later commanded 849 NAS Palembang Flight on further KIPION deployments.

 

Promoted to Lieutenant Commander in 2016, she served as Operations Officer and then Senior Observer on 849 NAS, completing the final operational deployment of the SKASaC aircraft and accumulating over 2,200 hours.

 

Serena transitioned from flying in 2018 to become Military Assistant to Director Carrier Strike, later supporting national COVID response efforts. Selected for Commander in 2021, she became Head Engagement at UK Space Command, receiving an Air and Space Commander’s Commendation in 2024. She attended the Australian Command and Staff Course the same year, winning the Overseas Student Award.

 

In 2025 she became Royal Navy Spokesperson in the Directorate of Defence Communications (DDC), and in 2026 was promoted to Captain, briefly serving in the Prime Minister’s Press Office before becoming Assistant Head of Strategy and Policy in DDC.

 

A keen sportswoman, Serena has represented the Royal Navy and UK Armed Forces in hockey. She also enjoys running, skiing, and exploring gins from around the world. She is married to JB, and they have a young daughter who keeps them on their toes!