11 June 2025
Lieutenant Commander Sarah Kaese is kicking goals far from home – literally and figuratively.
Currently on exchange with the Royal Navy, Lieutenant Commander Kaese is serving as the senior warfare officer on board HMS Dragon, a Type 45 destroyer.
The ship recently engaged in an historic live-firing exercise off Scotland when it launched a specially modified Sea Viper missile and destroyed a supersonic missile.
It marked the first time the Royal Navy has faced down this kind of target – one significantly more challenging as it flies faster and carries out corkscrew and weave manoeuvres.
But beyond the high-stakes world of air warfare and NATO exercises, she’s also stepped into a different kind of ring – Muay Thai.
Having recently earned her Royal Navy Level 1 Muay Thai coaching qualification, Lieutenant Commander Kaese has become a vital part of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Combat Sports Initiative – a program designed to engage youth through martial arts and steer them away from knife crime and street violence.
“One of the biggest highlights of my exchange has been being involved with the Combat Sports Initiative,” Lieutenant Commander Kaese said.
“It’s a way to offer kids something different – discipline, respect and belonging.”
Her Muay Thai journey began in 2018 out of curiosity at a gym in Western Australia. Over time, it evolved into a passion that’s taken her across the country, and the world, including training stints in Thailand and Indonesia.
“I fell in love with the art and respect in Muay Thai,” Lieutenant Commander Kaese said.
“It’s not about anger or violence, it’s about control, discipline and technique. You can’t fight well if you’re emotional.”
'I’ve learnt so much from the Royal Navy Muay Thai community and I’d love to take that knowledge back home to build something similar in Australia.'
The discipline of Muay Thai has also strengthened her confidence and resilience – traits she brings to her professional role on board Dragon.
Alongside her martial arts pursuits, Lieutenant Commander Kaese has been involved in NATO planning and exercises, including attending conferences at the NCIA in The Hague.
“Serving aboard Dragon has been an incredible challenge and honour,” she said.
“Every day I’m learning and being pushed in my role.”
As she looks ahead to completing her exchange posting, Lieutenant Commander Kaese hopes to continue fighting for the Royal Navy Muay Thai team and one day establish a dedicated team within the Royal Australian Navy.
“I’ve learnt so much from the Royal Navy Muay Thai community and I’d love to take that knowledge back home to build something similar in Australia,” she said.
Whether in uniform or in the ring, Lieutenant Commander Kaese is proving that real leadership is about strength, resilience and always fighting for a better future.
Head of Australian Defence Staff in London Air Commodore Matt Harper said Lieutenant Commander Kaese’s achievements reflected the depth and value of the Australia–UK military relationship.
“Sarah’s leadership in warfare and her passion for making a difference through sport reflect the professionalism, adaptability and character we strive for in our Defence Force,” Air Commodore Harper said.
“She represents the very best of the ADF, and we’re proud to see her strengthening both operational ties and community impact during her time with the Royal Navy.”
