Serena Brotherton joined BRNC Dartmouth in 2003 after earning a degree in Economics and Politics from Queen’s University Belfast.
Her naval career began at university, where she joined the Royal Naval Reserve at HMS CAROLINE.Brotherton received her Wings as an Airborne Surveillance and Control Observer in June 2006 and spent the next four years on frontline operations with 849 NAS B Flt and 857 NAS, participating in various global missions, including Operations VELA, CALASH, and HERRICK 10, where she flew missions providing surveillance in support of UK and US troops in Helmand Province.
In 2010, she became a Qualified Observer Instructor and returned to 849 NAS to train ab-initio Sea King Mk7 observers. In 2013, as a Helicopter Warfare Instructor with 857 NAS, she supported Operation HERRICK on three more occasions until the squadron’s final departure from Camp Bastion in May 2014.
Following a brief period of maritime regeneration, she deployed on Operation KIPION, including three weeks aboard the USS CARL VINSON as a UK Liaison Officer, earning a 3* Joint Commander’s Commendation for her contributions.In January 2015, Brotherton became the 849 NAS Palembang Flight Commander, supporting Operation KIPION and conducting Maritime Security Operations from RFA FORT VICTORIA.
Promoted to Lieutenant Commander in 2016, she served as Operations Officer for 849 NAS, completed Intermediate Staff Training, and returned as Senior Observer for the last operational deployment of the SKASaC aircraft.In August 2018, Brotherton transitioned to the role of Military Assistant to the Director Carrier Strike.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, she was seconded to the Military Aid to Civilian Authorities team, writing operational orders for military assistance.
Promoted to Commander in March 2021, she later became SO1 Engagement at UK Space Command and received a 3* Air and Space Commander’s Commendation in 2024 for her contribution.
Brotherton graduated from the Australian Command and Staff Course in December 2024, winning the Overseas Course Member Prize, and assumed her current position as MOD Royal Navy Spokesperson in January 2025.
A passionate sportswoman, she plays hockey for the Royal Navy and UK Armed Forces teams and enjoys running, skiing, and sampling gin. She is married to John and has a young daughter who keeps them both busy.