The "Büro des Marinenachrichtendiensts" (Bureau of naval intelligence), short "BDM" or "Büro", is Rheinland's secret service and head of the Marinenachrichtendienst, tasked with Sirius-wide monitoring, gathering and processing of information, prevention of hostile acts, and neutralization of the alien menace in Rheinland. The BDM relies on a variety of measures, the majority of which are clandestine. If necessary, they even use ties to the criminal underground in order to accomplish their mission.
The BDM cooperates closely together with the Rheinland Federal Police and Rheinland Military to maintain the national security of the federal republic. Specialized personnel and the latest tools are required to ensure the agency's superiority towards its enemies. Members of the Büro are some of the best in Rheinland. They are experienced, capable and highly motivated to protect the fatherland. Beyond that, the Büro is also equipped with its own navy - The so called "U-Korps" - A small fleet dreaded for its guerrilla and economic-warfare tactics. Although their fleet size isn't as large as the Rheinwehr's, they are still able to adapt at any situation and can turn the outcome of a conflict in favor of the federal republic.
The wreck of an imperial Rheinland cruiser, left floating
in Sigma-13 after the battle of the Yanagi Nebula
With the abrupt end to the 80 years war in 668 A.S, the Kaiser ordered the birth of a new sub-military organization tasked with intelligence gathering. With the Rheinland Imperial fleet suffering an enormous blow during the 80 years war, the Kaiser believed the tragic loss of life could have been avoided if they have proper intelligence on the sigma-13 system. The newly formed Rheinland Military did not have the financial means to conduct adequate military intelligence gathering, so the Büro was formed in 670 A.S. The BDM was heavily involved in the Von Rohe's Day incident in 672 A.S. By order of the Kaiser, It infiltrated the protester groups and relayed back to the Military on key figure and plans. It began to target key individuals and they ‘disappeared’ one after the other.
705 A.S. - Downfall and Resurrection
Rheinland expedition in the Omicrons, ~785 A.S.
When the Kaiser stepped down, the BDM destroyed all case files and studies and became a ghost. The Büro was not of public knowledge since its creation, so when it got canceled they were not aware of any changes. When the heat from the revolutionaries died down, and a chancellor was put into office, the BDM came back from the shadows and was re-instated into the Rheinland government and armed forces.
With funding from the new Chancellor, the Büro was equipped with military hardware and it became the eyes and ears of Rheinland in Sirius. It began to infiltrate the other houses and key corporations in Sirius. Still unaware of public knowledge, the BDM relayed all data from groups in Sirius to the Chancellor and planned possible Rheinland occupation sites such as the Omegas and Omicrons.
800 A.S. - Baptism of fire
At the end of the eighth century, a group of Rheinland researchers in the Omicron systems would stumble upon a most extraordinary cache. With the discovery of hundreds of artifacts, the Rheinland government and military quickly became infested by nomad organisms. The BDM was not officially known to have had any contaminated agents but during this time, one agent disappeared and his body and ship were never found. With the arrival of the Wilde, the BDM was tasked with its immediate destruction and months were spent on Wilde research and neutralization. This is still continuing to this day.
At early 805A.S. an anomaly was discovered within Sektor-7, the jumphole leading towards an old imperial system named Thuringia had created a stir amongst the military and intelligence division. The sector was known as an abandoned imperial system that had fallen to the Nomadic influence and was a almost fortified beyond penetration. This anomaly had presented a backdoor to retake this territory, but without the available forces to retake the system, any sort of offensive action was delayed and the jumphole was secured around a kill zone until the opportunity can arise again.
816 A.S. - A new threat
The Munster module in New Hampshire, 821 A.S.
When the Liberty – Rheinland war broke out, the BDM co-operated with the Rheinland Military on strike groups and recon work. The battles in Texas and Bremen resulted in many agents being killed in the line of duty and BDM recruitment in the Military began to enlarge its member count. Further financial aid was pumped into the BDM during this time.
Damaged Hamburg jump gate in Hudson, 822 A.S.
In 818 A.S., when the discovery of the Gallia house was publicised, the Büro was seen in the Tau systems and the Gallia-Sirius border world systems. When the Gallia Royal Navy began its march into the Tau Sector and it agreed a no-fire treat with Kusari so that it could assault Bretonia without disruptions, the BDM began to conduct operations to determine the threat Gallia would pose to Rheinland in the long run while local elements within Rheinland continued to operate against Liberty and it's interests, primarily by disrupting lines of supply within the House of Liberty. The Büro also continued it's work on Nomad-based Technologies despite the setbacks they received within Bremen due to a Libertonian assault on Munster Research Station.
However, with the destruction of both Hamburg jump gates in Bering and Hudson, the bloodshed took an end after five years of war. Rheinland and Liberty agree to a ceasefire in the year 822 A.S., while the BDM still had to settle an outstanding bill - With a final strike, the Büro took the chance to recover content of the stranded Munster module in New Hampshire and subsequently destroyed all remaining evidences, to ensure nothing of Munster's research will ever land in Liberty's hands. Most of Munster's research is gone, however, the BDM could still rescue some databases, including technology relevant for later projects. These were brought to the Westerwald facility in Frankfurt.
823 A.S. - The Reformation
BDM gunboat in Omicron space, 823 A.S.
Direktor Volker Koch had taken the lead into taking the Buro within its first steps of change. And change it had to thanks to the withdrawal of units from the front in Liberty and the increasing crime rate in Rheinland, having its support from the Order, the edge worlds became more and more a center of interest. The BDM consolidated its agreements with The Core, with the intention to secure the supplies of nomad technologies from the Edge worlds in return for support against the Order terrorist cells. Since this date the Büro was more frequently seen in Omicron space. Available budget freed by the Liberty war was used to expand the agency and to recruit new personnel. A complete reformation was scheduled. BDM's scientists also made several crucial breakthroughs in the same year, despite the immense setbacks during the war.
But with the fleet free from the Libertonian front the next goal was clear, Thuringia had to be retaken. The presence of the compromised chancellors fleet was a threat to agency security and safety so a major fleet combined with the military was formed to undertake the great task to eliminate Das Wilde forces from this neighbouring system. And so with an immediate flow of the BDM fleet, the agency had moved in to pacify the threat. One after another, ships of the compromised fleet had fallen to the Bundesrepublik advance with ease thanks to the new tactics and unyielding determination to end the alien threat the Republik has been hostage to. But where the older infected ships couldn't stand upto the present and specialised fleet of the agency, ground operations went a lot differently. The bloodied battle on the surface to retake the imperial complex of "Festung Fensalia" had cost the lives and individuality of 30,000 people on both the sides of Das Wilde and the MND. But to this day, it is a war that is held in secret.
824 A.S. - Striving independence
Reformation, reformation and restructuring, this was what happened for the next long gruelling year. The cause of which was the change of ranks, Direktor Geoffrey Enfield had soon taken up position as Direktor and with it the shifting responsibilities of the Buro. Although plans to change the Buro were ready, there was a sudden change within the status quo. A new leader meant a new image, striving for independence from not only the military, but the tight grip of the corporations. Ships, equipment and funds were always going to be swayed within the votes of the Bundesrepubliks political halls. So to create a means of swaying opinions, the Buro had to create a bridge of trust with the bureaucratic obstacle. Relations had changed too, the instability and events of the deep omicrons had created a PR divide that was questionable to maintain with the agreements of the Core, distance was created and relations stagnated in favour of a new group, the common enemies of the Outcasts had brought new attention by the agency. Not only of their potential of military assistance but the pure wealth of the nation was a good enough of a reason to open up diplomacy in an attempt to secure economic gain for the republic.
Accountants, investigators and covert agents were the key to sway the opinions. Be it by giving favours or by blackmailing the reputation on senators out of their next annual seat. Budgets were raised and the fleet expanded under its new autonomous authority and projects were opened fast than it had ever done under any previous leadership. Everything seemed to be working in favour of the Buro for that short time. Schatten had expanded its dry docks and the construction of production facilities was bringing the goal of a self-growing agency closer,
The new method had also brought around a change in attitude towards its research division. While nomads are a source of untapped knowledge and technology, the striving goal for independence created an uneasy concern with the science teams. If the Buro was going to retain its advantageous position over others, making nomad technology its greatest asset would make it its greatest downfall. The science teams didn't fully understand the methods of how all elements work, while experimentation would continue upon the highest anti-human element to understand their weaknesses, the risk of the nomads taking advantage of that weakness is too great.
825 A.S. - A new front, a new issue.
War had once again hit the home-front. The increasing tensions between a victory starved Military with desperate expansionist intentions and the GMG's whos claim on established Rheinland territory had created a feud that was waiting to explode. The Buro already facing the extent of its over-indulgence of funds had soon received the consequences of such actions, funding had been diverted from the Federal agency towards the military in a hopes that the republic could hopefully secure a quick victory in the conflict they found themselves in. This found the agency scrambling to secure more funding by any means, while budgets were tight they were still able to secure most of their main assets and projects listed under their public dossier. Meanwhile, some other projects were under a new source of income along with new rumours of a sub division solely to obtain profit the agency; be it monetary or material.
But the one thing they were not going to give up, was their progress towards securing the advantage...
827 A.S. - The Monarchist uprising and the Civil War.
The dawn of spring of the new year has seen a brand new conflict - not of external nature, but within the House and in the highest echelons of power; following the formation of coalition minority government pushing for legal decriminalisation of Bundschuh party and restrain aggressive diplomatic action taken by neighboring Bretonia have caused widespread unrest across Rheinland, starting march 827 with the protests and uprisings instigated and spearheaded by reactionary Imperialist party; initially occuring in Hamburg where said party enjoyed their major support, actively stoked fires of unrest spread across the House major population centers within weeks. With the convenient expellation of sympathetic legislators during the investigation of Buro's complete withdrawal from offensive operations in the Sigma War, the Monarchists have seized their opportunity by the mid-april and declared the Federal government illegitimate in the wake of the greatest wave of protests since the Von Rohe Day accident.
Heldrungen wreck, a cruel reminder to purging of Thuringia.
As the first fights broke out both in space and planetside and an open conflict erupted, Buro has come to realise the day they have been bracing for, have come. Loyalties have been declared and dispued, stalwart resistance put up against the reactionary elements, the BDM enacted failsafe contingency plans: the system of Thuringia was cleared of Imperial sympathisers, politicians that later on formed the backbone of Rheinland United Republic were evacuated to underground complexes of planet Weimar, and Thuringia was turned into a fortress system firmly under Buro control.
The infighting of Imperial and Federal elements have often enough caused gruesome casualties; the battleship Koblenz, standing guard to Schatten facility, have fallen victim to such infighting, it's federal-leaning elements reinforced by hastily approaching Bayern escorts have broken the backbone of Imperial resistance and secured Schatten - at a cost of the flagship that buckled under intense fire from retreating Imperial forces. It's wreck still remains in Sektor 7 to this day, serving a massive tombstone to all deceased in combat.
Koblenz, destroyed in Sektor 7 at the opening stage of the war.
Battleship Karlsruhe was stationed in the orbit of Stuttgart as the open fighting ensued; finding itself far from any and all Federal command centers and with friendly ports in close proximity being but a fleeting dream it performed fighting retreat to the neighboring system against the Altenburg, en route to pacify the rogue Rheinwehr unit. The full scale clash of two battleships only happened in Cologne, with the Imperial formation gaining the upper hand and forcing the Federal supporters to retreat further into Zurich for field repairs and resupply. In desperate demand to reconnect with the rest of Federal resistance, Karlsruhe returned to Cologne and squared off against Altenburg once again but, ultimately cut off from friendly reinforcements, have met it's demise in the shadow of planet Steinfurt.
Eventually not even the entrance into BDM a prominent figure of Minna-Dietlinde Wilcke, whose raise through ranks to Generaloberinspektor of Buro was conveniently quick and who have taken charge of coordinating defense efforts across Rheinland with a few daring ideas to work with limited resources and manpower and in the wake of challenges Republican resistance was facing.
Karlsruhe still remains where it faced it's last fight.
Imperial reactionaries still controlled majority of popualtion centers, resources of Rheinland and standing armed forces. Realistically, all the Federal coalition could do is further entrench, scraping for resources and watching supportest flock to Thuringia, accumulating reserves. Time did not play in Federalist favor, however, and it was only a matter of time until Imperial forces gather and attempt to breach the system, the Oberkommando, the Government and the system lived in anticipation of that day. The offensive eventually happened and costed both sides even more casualties, some names becoming part of the statistics and some lost to history forever. The fighting had stopped only by mid-December, with either side neglecting their standing orders and refusing to continue fighting, each remaining at their stations - the fighting subsided and an uneasy armistice has ensued, resulting in signing of Holstein Accords that formalised the ceasefire and post-war organisation of government.
830 A.S. - The present day.
In the aftermath of the Civil War, BDM has found itself in an admittedly odd spot. Generaloberinspektorin Wilcke further rose to power and assumed Direktorin position after the quiet vanishing of previous Direktor, Kai Siegfried, which led some Agents to quietly ponder whether it is a convenient coincidence or someone has taken direct interest in disposing of Siegfried in favor of new face taking place. Not much radically new has been brought to the table with Wilcke's ascendance - Agency worked in their regular spheres, restored broken connections and assets scuttled during the Civil War, striving to return to pre-war levels of cohesion; Buro saw an influx of many new recruits, majority with military background who were assigned to retraining or actual service positions, depending on department distribution, some awaiting deployment to assets being reconstructed at Schatten. Federal sentiments are still strong in the Agency, however, displinary penalties are sternly enforced and anyone found in breach of new regulations on duty is indiscriminately prosecuted.
Especially keen watch is placed upon Bretonian activity as suspicion are strong that Imperial coup had happened with serious backing from the aggressive neighbor House implied to still have connections to Imperial family. The Buro affairs, otherwise, continues as usual...
False rumors are often being used by the BDM to conceal the truth. Most of these are not to be taken serious, since they are pure superstition. But some of those inconspicuous myths are hiding a frightening reality. The most famous rumors and myths, in regard of the BDM and its assets, are listed below:
Alien experiments & Infested personnel
Sites like these have to be sterilized from potential aliens and infection forms.
Rumors tell the existence of a secret BDM division, responsible for alien research, whose tasks are beyond all legal principles and even go much further. Rumors range from cybernetic enhancements, genetically modified super soldiers, up to inhumane experiments with nomad incubi, aswell as infestation within own ranks. It is also believed, the BDM is involved in a variety of major projects in Rheinland, concerning advanced technologies such as jump drives, cloaking devices, or nomad hybrid hardware.
Mysterious agents in dark uniforms have been seen recently. Official information sources do not mention their existence. At great effort, the BDM attempts to conceal the true purpose of this mysterious department.
BDM’s primary task is to collect, analyze, and evaluate information for the Rheinland government, military and police, in order to assist these in making decisions relating to law enforcement, national security, military, and foreign policy objectives. Means of information gathering are both overt and covert and include espionage, communication interception, cryptanalysis, cooperation with other institutions, and evaluation of public sources. Knowledge is power. If you can control information, you can control people.
● Gain a key advantage for the federal republic and our allies under all circumstances (including clandestine means), through gathering of tactical, scientific, political or economic information, obtained by overt and covert means throughout Sirius.
● Monitoring of foreign corporations and militaries.
● Interception of local and foreign transmission channels, be it of civil or military origin.
● When necessary, use of "enhanced interrogation" techniques to gain intel from prisoners.
● Guarantee safe evaluation of information for later archival and review purposes.
Ⅱ- Counterintelligence:
The BDM is known to maintain a well organised network of undercover agents and overt military police assets, providing protection against intelligence activities such as espionage, sabotage, or assassinations conducted by foreign organizations or persons. The Büro is not ready to release any catched spies and will also confiscate or destroy their equipment.
● Detection of treasonable activities and their elimination through counter-espionage, counter-sabotage, counter-terrorism or counter-propaganda.
● Elimination of unauthorized foreign intelligence assets, terrorists, or personnel standing under alien influence, through internal (within the own agency) and external (within the Rheinland government, military, police, and others) counterintelligence methods.
● Monitoring of civil traffic, Rheinland military, and police entities within Rheinland space.
● Monitoring of own intelligence personnel.
Ⅲ- Tactical- and Logistical Support:
Besides the provision of intel or counterintelligence services, the BDM also provides support in form of security services or the provision of supplies, when and wherever necessary.
● Increase the efficiency of national security systems and other critical operations when and where needed.
● Object and personal protection of Rheinland entities in foreign space, such as embassies and delegates.
● Witness protection.
● Logistical support for allied forces and own entities.
Ⅳ- Assassination and Sabotage:
Stab the enemy where it hurts at most, with the unseen knife that can hit everywhere and anytime. Choke the shipping lanes of an enemy, cutting off vital supplies of food, fuel and raw materials, everything needed to continue fighting. Through our presence within other houses, we remind our opponents on their vulnerability. No matter where they hide, nobody can escape from the sword of the Kanzler.
● Make use of economic and guerrilla warfare tactics to cause maximum damage with minimal losses.
● Make use of electronic warfare methods to paralyze an enemy and make him unable to act.
● Sabotage or destruction of hostile infrastructure, supplies or war machinery to wear down an enemy from within.
● Sabotage or destruction of hostile alien equipment or research facilities.
● Intimidation or removal of witnesses with governmental-damaging knowledge to avoid or minimize political fallout.
● Laying of faked evidences to avoid or minimize political fallout.
● Laying of faked evidences to cause a conflict between two parties.
● Assassination of key individuals within groups or houses, declared as enemies of the state.
Ⅴ- Alien research:
The BDM is publicly not known to conduct alien research. Not even the Rheinland government is aware of it. And those who are involved are all kept on a "need-to-know" basis.
● Neutralization of the Nomad threat and their biohazardous substances within Rheinland space.
● Confiscation, investigation and adaptation of foreign technologies or materials to gain an advantage for the federal republic towards its enemies.
● Exploiting weaknesses within hostile technology and developing of possible countermeasures.
● Developement of cutting-edge technologies for own purposes only.
● Maintain absolute control and secrecy over all research projects within own facilities.
● Investigation of catastrophes or unusual phenomenons.
Ⅵ- Propaganda:
The media is one of the most powerful entities in Sirius. Who controls it, controls the minds of the masses. They have the power to make the innocent guilty and to make the guilty innocent.
● Control the media.
● Monitoring of local and Sirius-wide news networks.
● Avoid publication of unwanted data, which could harm Rheinland's reputation, its national security or its authorities.
● Disseminate rumors and myths to create confusion in public, in order to conceal an incident.
● Blame a certain person, group, or house for crimes, through the presentation of evidences in official statements to justify the use of military strikes.
● Use the media for recruitment purposes.
The BDM is known for its proud military tradition and maintains an unique rank system. Tasks at the Büro are often rich in variety. Not all employees of the BDM wear uniforms. The responsibilities range from simple chefs, technicians, scientists, up to agents, inspectors, or capital ship commanders.
Departments:
Dkt-
Direktor
Adm-
Flottillenadmiral
Gen-
Generaloberinspektor
Kmo-
Kommissaroberrat
Oberkommando
The Oberkommando (High Command) is the head of the BDM and consist of exactly four high-ranked officers. The Oberkommando is responsible for every project, every single military operation, and also for every misstep that might arise. These people are rarely seen in public and often fight their wars behind their desks. They are always well guarded and therefore nearly untouchable. If one of them is seen outside, then it must be very important for the Büro. Together they form the "all seeing eye" of Rheinland's secret service.
Be nice and do not screw up in front of one. It will possibly cost you your rank or even worse.
Main Tasks:
■ Administration of BDM assets
■ Monitoring of Büro personnel and fleet movement
■ Providing the Rheinland government and its authorities with intel
■ Issuing statements in press conferences
Being the Direktor means a lot of work, pressure and responsibilities. Not many people are suitable for this kind of task or would even imagine to expose themselves to this stress. He desides what happens inside the Büro facilities and what happens to the personnel. He can make sure someone has a name, life and job, or make them all disappear from existence completely. The Direktor is aware of Rheinland's darkest secrets and is familiar with all processes inside of the BDM and its facilities. He already knows the taste of a new Apfelstrudel even before it is in development.
The Direktor is the 1st in command and member of the BDM high command, who:
● Has code "SCHWARZ, GRÜN, BLAU" security clearances.
● Can authorize and lead projects/operations/inspections.
● Can permit foreign combat vessels to enter Rheinland.
● Can ban individuals/organisations from Rheinland for reasons of national security.
● Can request funds from the Rheinland Bundestag.
● Can make anyone disappear from existence.
● Can have and take two secretaries at once.
● May ban Apfelstrudel from being added to any personal provisions and food rations.
The Flottillenadmiral is the sword of the Direktor; head of the BDM war organization and thereby in command of the Marinekommando. He is mainly responsible for external affairs and keeps therefore a formal eye on all actions outside of Rheinland. The Flottillenadmiral is often present in large scale operations and battles as fleet coordinator.
The Flottillenadmiral is the 2nd in command and a member of the BDM high command, who:
● Has a level "GRÜN" security clearance.
● Can command the Marinekommando.
● Can authorize and lead operations.
● Can permit foreign combat vessels to enter Rheinland.
● Can ban individuals/organisations from Rheinland for reasons of national security.
● Can participate in poker games with the Direktor and drink Rheinbier in presence of him.
The Generaloberinspektor is the shield of the Direktor and head of BDM's internal affairs. He is responsible for internal security, such as counterintelligence, and commands the Inspektorat. He keeps track of criminal databases and obtains information on hostile movements within Rheinland's borders. He oversees any actions of BDM personnel, but also keeps an eye on personnel of external organisations such as military or police.
The Generalinspektor is the 3rd in command and a member of the BDM high command, who:
● Has a level "BLAU" security clearance.
● Can command the Inspektorat.
● Can authorize and lead inspections.
● Can permit foreign combat vessels to enter Rheinland.
● Can ban individuals/organisations from Rheinland for reasons of national security.
● Can participate in poker games with the Direktor and drink Rheinbier in presence of him.
The Kommissaroberrat is the shadow of the Direktor. While being the highest holding authority of the Kommissariat, he watches over all research projects and nomad experiments of the Büro. Under the Direktor's orders, the Kommissaroberrat coordinates internal but also external alien countermeasures, in order to protect the agency and Rheinland from nomad infiltrators.
The Kommissaroberrat is the 4rd in command and a member of the BDM high command, who:
● Has a level "SCHWARZ" security clearance.
● Can command the Kommissariat.
● Can authorize and lead projects.
● Can permit foreign combat vessels to enter Rheinland.
● Can ban individuals/organisations from Rheinland for reasons of national security.
● Can participate in poker games with the Direktor and drink Rheinbier in presence of him.
Hks-
Hauptkommissar
Kms-
Kommissar
Kommissariat
The KDS - Kommissariat des Seuchenschutzdienst (Commissariat for anti-epidemic measures), is part of the BDM mid command and was formed in 799 A.S. as response to the predominant Nomad threat within Rheinland. KDS is well prepared in the localization and neutralization of alien presences. The Kommissariat is also responsible for investigations of catastrophes or unusual phenomenons. Officers of this department collect field samples and scientific data on site and deliver these to the laboratories for further analysis. Contact with nomad organisms is their daily bread. Weird is a flexible term within the Kommissariat and definitely not for the faint-hearted.
Main Tasks:
■ Protecting Rheinland from the alien menace
■ Localization and neutralization of Nomad entities and infested personnel
■ Confiscation of alien materials and their technology
The Abteilung für Grenzwissenschaften (Department of Fringe Sciences) is a secret sub department of the Kommissariat, which has been called into life to study the Nomads and their technology. This division employs some of the brightest heads in Rheinland: Scientists, engineers and xeno-archaeologists. Many would declare them insane, but the BDM recognizes their potential. Any information about this division is highly classified. The fringe division does officially not exist.
Main Tasks:
■ Alien research
■ Investigating catastrophes and unusual phenomenons
■ Development of alien countermeasures
■ Adaptation of alien hardware
■ Reverse engineering
■ Prototyping and field testing
The Hauptkommissar, gaining the the highest trust of the Oberkommando, is tasked with keeping the entirety of Büro projects secret and keeping the Kommissariat well managed under the order of the Kommissaroberrat. The Hauptkommissar supervises all activities inside the Kommissariat and takes care that everything runs as planned. As highest officer this department, he is responsible for all projects, their execution up to completion, aswell as to keep the Kommissaroberrat informed about their status. He can mobilize all available resources in order to reach the desired goals.
The Hauptkommissar is a member of the BDM commissariat, who:
● Can lead task forces of the Kommissariat under command of the Kommissaroberrat.
The Kommissar is the the executing officer of the Kommissariat, led by a Hauptkommissar.
The Kommissar is a member of the BDM Kommissariat, who:
● Can execute tasks of the Kommissariat under command of the Hauptkommissar.
Kpt-
Kapitän
Kvt-
Korvettenkapitän
Marinekommando
The MK - Marinekommando (Naval Command) is part of the mid command and is often cooperating with the Rheinland Military in military strikes. Officers of this department analyze tactical status reports and create detailed strategic plans, based on data given by undercover agents or other sources, and are responsible for the mobilization of the economic warfare division known as the "Unterseebootsflottille" (U-boat flotilla). They decide about the use of capital ships and lead these vessels into conflict areas. They act in guerrilla warfare whenever possible, since their resources are limited.
Main Tasks:
■ Mobilisation of the U-boat flotilla
■ Mobilisation of the combat drone squadron
■ Provision of tactical- and logistical support
■ Conduction of military operations
The KDG - Kampfdrohnengeschwader (Combat Drone Squadron) is a special wing consisting of unmanned vessels, controled by an artificial intelligence within the Marinekommando. Instead of risking the lives of own personnel, drones are being sent into field to execute dangerous long-term missions in deep space. These advanced vessels are being used very effectively in combat and reconnaissance operations of the BDM today. They are fast, powerful and precise in their attacks.
Main Tasks:
■ Execution of operations by the Marinekommando's command. Failure is unacceptable!
■ Defense of allied units in combat actions against hostile entities. Has priority!
The Kapitän (Captain) is the highest rank of the Marinekommando and manages this section with certain permissions from the Flottillenadmiral. Their duties are to organize operations such as military strikes and sabotage against the enemies of Rheinland, also taking care of all logistical affairs that can arise during these operations. Being highly renowned for their actions within the "U-Korps", they are able to attack with complete versatility and command with excellent efficiency.
The Kapitän is a member of the BDM naval command, who:
● Can lead task forces of the Marinekommando under command of the Flottillenadmiral.
The Korvettenkapitän is a 1st class junior rank and executing officer of the Marinekommando, led by the Kapitän.
The Korvettenkapitän is a member of the BDM naval command, who:
● Can execute tasks of the Marinekommando under command of the Kapitän.
Hns-
Hauptinspektor
Ins-
Inspektor
Inspektorat
The IFS - Inspektorat für Staatssicherheit (Inspectorate of State Security) is the secret police of the BDM and works closely together with the Rheinland Federal Police in law enforcement and criminal investigations. Officers of this department throw an eye on criminal databases and go on patrols regularly. They perform security check-ups and cargo inspections, escort logistic vessels, register suspicious behavior, detect enemy spies and eliminate these when possible. BDM's counterespionage division is well organised, including overt assets but also undercover agents. Their Zone of influence, however, is not limited to Rheinland only. Their presence and assistance is necessary whenever a question of security arises. They follow strict security protocols and are ready to enforce these with all necessary force. One of the toughest ground troops in Sirius - The Schattengarde (Shadow Guard), are part of the Inspektorat. As the name suggests, they guard the Schatten Research Facility.
Main Tasks:
■ Counterintelligence
■ Object and personal protection
■ Execution of personnel inspections
The Cyber-Kommando (Cyber Command) is part of the Inspektorat, formed in 823 A.S. with the introduction of the Valknut Neural Network, to secure Rheinland from virtual attacks and dare the step into the new area of electronic warfare. The BDM is well prepared in fending off any kind of cyberspace attack. Agents of this division do nothing else than to sit in front of a monitor the whole day long and sniff around in various networks and channels, or are involved in developing new programs and security concepts for the agency.
Main Tasks:
■ Protecting Rheinland from cyberspace attacks
■ Detection and neutralization of potential malicious software within Valknut's cyberspace
■ Conduction of cyberspace operations
■ Infiltration and sabotage of hostile computer systems conducting attacks on Valknut's network
■ Data retention and evaluation
■ Monitoring of news channels
■ Interception and decryption of data traffic
The Hauptinspektor is involved in advanced policing of both internal personnel and external civilians. They must uphold the laws of Rheinland while also calling out any suspicious actions or wrongdoing by anyone found in Rheinland controlled space.
The Hauptinspektor is a member of the BDM inspectorate, who:
● Can lead task forces of the Inspektorat under command of the Generaloberinspektor.
The Inspektor is the the executing officer of the Inspektorat, led by a Hauptinspektor.
The Inspektor is a member of the BDM inspectorate, who:
● Can execute tasks of the Inspektorat under command of the Hauptinspektor.
Sgt-
Spezialagent
Agt-
Agent
Rkt-
Rekrut
Spezialoperationsabteilung
The SpecialOps - Spezialoperationsabteilung (Special Operations Division) is consisting of so-called Bundesagenten (Federal Agents) who are well trained and organised. As the name suggests, this division deals with special operations - Be it overt or undercover; reconnaissance or sabotage; in Rheinland or deep within enemy territory. These agents are well prepared for every conceivable scenario. This department is, in first place, tasked with gathering information and serves as the eyes and ears of the entire BDM agency.
Main Tasks:
■ Information gathering
■ Assassination and sabotage
■ Recruitment and training of new personnel
The Spezialagent (Special Agent) is one of the toughest amongst all Bundesagenten. Their observation skills, speed and experiences in combat, be it martial arts or with weapons, surpasses those of a normal soldier by far. They know how to behave correctly in dangerous situations and have learned to control themselves, making them a dangerous weapon immune to pain and emotions. Each agent is capable to survive one-man missions behind enemy lines. The Büro supports them with all technical opportunities, to ensure they don't fail in their missions and return to Rheinland successfully. However, some still die from time to time.
The Spezialagent is a member of the BDM special operations division, who:
● Can lead task forces of the Spezialoperationsabteilung under command of the Elevated/Higher echelon.
The Agent is the most common rank within the agency. These people are found in all areas of the Büro, fulfilling rather simple tasks - be it as crew member of a war vessel, or as assistant behind a desc. The Agent has passed his training with success and is now a trusted member of the agency. These people always take great care to not break their own cover as any mistake could quickly land them in jail or worse. They know how to collect valuable information through different sources, be it through lawful or unlawful ways.
The Agent is a member of the BDM special operations division, who:
● Can execute tasks of the Spezialoperationsabteilung under command of the Spezialagent.
The Rekrut (Recruit), also known as "Kadett" or sometimes called "Frischling", "Lehrling" or "Stift" - Is the newest member of the Büro, an agent in training, who has accepted the job offer given by the agency, and now goes through an extensive training with subsequent preparatory service. Only the best will pass the tests and become a full member of the BDM. These people should not be underestimated. Being labeled as recruit at the agency does not mean to be a greenhorn. The opposite is the case. Each individual has previous experiences from former occupations, often chosen by the BDM because of exceptional skills, be it in: Combat, law, hacking, logistics, engineering, or research. They receive the necessary MND training with additional education courses to promote their abilities.
The Rekrut is a member of the BDM special operations division, who:
● Cannot leave Rheinland without at least one additional wingman, with the same rank or or above.
● Cannot enter the Omicrons without two additional wingmen, with the same rank or above.
Allies, Friends and useful Entities
The following entities are considered useful to the BDM and are to be approached with friendly and cooperative manner:
Logo
Faction Name and Reputation
Notes
Rheinland Military
Rheinland Federal Police
The Core
■ Important provider of alien materials and technology.
■ Relations are to be upheld to guarantee Rheinland's and the Core's military dominance over the Omicron systems, in combat against the terrorist and alien menace.
■ The current Treaty is in effect.
Bounty Hunters Guild
■ Proved useful in combat against enemies of the state.
ALG Waste Disposal
■ Important provider of MOX and capacities of processing depleted nuclear fuels.
■ Are citizens of Rheinland and therefore to be protected whenever possible, inside as well as outside of Rheinland space.
Daumann Heavy Construction
■ Important producer of ships and all the necessary hardware.
■ Are citizens of Rheinland and therefore to be protected whenever possible, inside as well as outside of Rheinland space.
Kruger Minerals
■ Important DT-Fuel provider.
■ Are citizens of Rheinland and therefore to be protected whenever possible, inside as well as outside of Rheinland space.
Republican Shipping
■ Important deliverer with access to the entire market of Sirius and Gallia.
■ Are citizens of Rheinland and therefore to be protected whenever possible, inside as well as outside of Rheinland space.
The Technocracy
■ Have been granted legal status in Rheinland ■ Proved to be a reliable source of information ■ NOTE: The Technocracy has absorbed elements of the Gammu AI. Use caution when interacting in the Omicrons.
Outcasts
■ Responsible for cardamine smuggling in Rheinland. Cardamine shipments are currently being redirected into Liberty through the implementation of the Orange Passage Pact.
■ Are not to be engaged unless in self-defense or in defence of an allied or neutral lawful ship within Rheinland space.
■ Use of force is granted as soon as regulations of the pact are being violated by the outcasts.
Neutral Entities BDM assets are to maintain a neutral and cooperative disposition towards all neutral or non-hostile entities whenever visible. We cannot afford to make enemies where they are not needed. Neutral entities may trade in Rheinland as long as the laws are being respected. The following entities are to be approached with care:
■ Proved to be useful in times of war against Liberty.
Junkers
■ Suspected to have connections to the criminal underground in Rheinland.
Independent Miners Guild
■ Suspected to have connections to the Red Hessians. Their actions is to be observed for the time being.
Interspace Commerce
■ Supplied the criminal underground in Rheinland once.
■ Maintains a hostile attitude towards the federal republic of Rheinland. Their actions is to be observed for the time being.
Omicron Supply Industries
■ Supplied the Red Hessians once.
■ Ban lifted. Currently on probation. Their actions is to be observed for the time being.
Liberty and its Corporations
Kusari
■ Armistice have been signed and war protocols are no longer active, replaced with standart operation doctrines.
Unwelcome Entities
The following entities are declared as unwelcome in Rheinland due to their non-cooperative, criminal or governmental-harming behavior towards the federal republic and its allies. Trade embargoes are in place at this point and are to be enforced through nonviolent means. Cargo is to be confiscated and unauthorized vessels are to be escorted out of Rheinland space. Unwelcome entities found in refusing cooperation, are to be taken in custody and may be destroyed. Confrontations outside of Rheinland space are not desired.
Logo
Faction Name and Reputation
Notes
Bretonia Intelligence Service
■ Foreign intelligence agency and therefore not welcome in Rheinland.
■ Unauthorized vessels are to be confiscated and pilots are to be taken in custody to minimize the risk of espionage, when seen in Rheinland space. ■ Suspected to be one of the prime instigators of the Imperial Coup of 827 and of the following conflict; any operatives captured are to be squeezed for information and terminated once proven to be of no more use.
Bretonia Unlawfuls
■ Rheinland has no place for criminals.
Gallia Unlawfuls
■ Rheinland has no place for criminals.
Liberty Security Force
■ Foreign intelligence agency and therefore not welcome in Rheinland.
■ Unauthorized vessels are to be confiscated and pilots are to be taken in custody to minimize the risk of espionage, when seen in Rheinland space.
Hostile Entities
The following entities are declared as hostile due to their known hostility towards the federal republic of Rheinland. Hence they are to be destroyed whenever seen in Rheinland territory and may also be engaged outside of Rheinland if deemed necessary:
Logo
Faction Name and Reputation
Notes
Gammu AI
■ Has shown aggressivity towards the BDM and its allies. They are a threat to Rheinland and therefore must be neutralized.
■ Remaining technologies are to be collected secretly.
Xenos
■ Are threatening the trade routes between Rheinland and Liberty.
Kusari Unlawfuls
■ Are threatening the trade routes between Rheinland and Kusari.
Landwirtrechtbewegung
■ A radical group, responsible for repeated acts of piracy and terror mainly against Synth Foods. ■ Have dissoluted since, partially merging with Unioners or Farmers Alliance. The criminal records and attitude stands.
Corsairs
■ Responsible for artifact smuggling, piracy and terror in Rheinland.
■ Take no prisoners. They aren't worth the effort.
Enemies of the State
The following entities are targets of top priority, declared as enemies of the state, due to their terrorist activities, and are to be neutralized whenever possible, be it within or outside of Rheinland territory:
Logo
Faction Name and Reputation
Notes
Gas Miners Guild
■ Responsible for murder and damaging of government property.
■ Maintains a hostile attitude towards the federal republic of Rheinland.
Sirius Coalition Revolutionary Army
■ Confirmed sympathizers of the Widerstandsarmee and responsible for terror in Rheinland.
Red Hessians
■ Part of the Widerstandsarmee, responsible for blood diamond smuggling, piracy, and terrorist activities in Rheinland.
Unioners
■ A radical group, responsible for repeated acts of piracy and terror against both federal law enforcement and Rheinland civilians. ■ Have been pardoned in the wake of the CIvil War, turned their backs on the courtesy.
Bundschuh
■ The backbone of the Widerstandsarmee with the goal to overthrow the Rheinland government with terror and violence.
■ Threatens to release all experimentation and research documents to the public and to dissolve the Büro if let into power.
■ The Widerstand movement would probably break apart with the Bundschuh's fall. Hence their entities and supporters are to be eliminated wherever and whenever possible.
The Order
■ Confirmed sympathizers of the Widerstandsarmee and responsible for terror in Rheinland.
■ Attempted murder on members of the BDM high command.
■ Abduction of BDM personnel.
■ Terrorises our allies.
Infested Forces
■ Infested humans are often indistinguishable from non-infested ones. Elimination is granted as soon as a case of infestation has been confirmed. This also applies to infested personnel within own ranks!
■ Remaining technologies are to be collected secretly. Witnesses are to be silenced to avoid political fallout. Any non-useful, toxic remains are to be neutralized immediately.
Nomads
■ Reports mention targeted deception attempts of BDM entities, which often resulted in friendly fire. Highest caution is advised!
■ Remaining technologies are to be collected secretly. Witnesses are to be silenced to avoid political fallout. Any non-useful, toxic remains are to be neutralized immediately.
Constructed early 825 A.S., in a prompt reaction to the Sigma-conflict, Rheinwehr and Marinenachrichtendienst deemed it necessary to prepare Schatten for the upcoming Sigma-invasion and the enlargement of projects within the facility, due to the transfer of most assets aboard Munster Research Facility, as the Westerwald is offering a strategic advantageous location - close to the front, with access to Mainz' storage and Mannheim's DT-Fuel supplies.
The AESIR facility itself is equipped with a wide range of automated machinery within a zero gravity environment, increasing productivity without requiring too many workers and necessary life-support systems. This compact but advanced production areal is extending the already gigantic Westerwald complex with three additional drydocks for mid-sized war vessels, allowing their manufacture and maintenance at faster rates and higher level of secrecy than at any other shipyard in Rheinland. It provides Rheinwehr and MND the opportunity to customize ships for specific missions, while all the necessary research is being conducted at Schatten's laboratories - be it an engine upgrade from H-Fuel to DT-Fuel; the installation of electronic warfare devices or additional docking bays on war ships.
Since then, the BDM have been setting up Buro owned production lines. large sections store massive amounts of equipment and technology for their own use. But there's also been rumours of manufacturing strange and equipment that has yet to be seen or used by other parties, what little employees this facility has doesn't speak of what happens behind those doors.. Some sections of the facility are closed off to even military personnel to minimize the risk of intelligence leaks and competitive parties attempting to steal it for themselves, the Buro take their protection of their assets seriously.
SCHATTEN RESEARCH FACILITY
OPERATORS:BDM, MND, Rheinland Military
CLASS:Mosel
GRAVITY:Complete
DOCKING:Available
AMENITIES:Available
POPULATION:920
FUNCTION:
■ Electromagnetic Research and Containment
■ Alien Research and Countermeasures
■ Camouflage Research
■ Signal Jamming
■ Reverse Engineering
"Die Echse"
The pride of the MND and the Rheinland military. Schatten is the most guarded secret within Rheinland, it's vast field is impenetrable and it's final goal, ever lasting. After the facilities major damage in 801A.S. Battle of Schatten between the Bundschuh and Rheinwehr forces the area was still considered a substantial military asset. After the great purge of infested forces, the military saw its potential to be reconstructed as a means to regain its upper hand over the other houses. The task of which was given to the reformed Marinenachrichtendienst to ensure that scientfic progress would continue to propel Rheinland forward technologically by any means necessary.
Schatten Research Facility was constructed some time during the year 803 A.S., but beyond that, nobody seems to be able to agree on much more. The base is well protected within the alien minefield in the Frankfurt system, virtually inaccessible save for one entry passage. - The base itself is the headquarters for major Rheinland special operation projects, which obviously makes it quite a tempting target. However, large divisions of the MND's elite operatives, some of the toughest ground troops in Sirius are stationed on the base for internal security and the high presence of military vessels in and around the station based off of the battleship Koblenz make an assault almost impossible.
Beyond that, nobody is quite sure what goes on within the station. It's essentially a giant Faraday Cage; no transmissions get out of the base, and there hasn't been a tool invented that can penetrate the electronic shielding. Reports range from experiments in genetic manipulation, to cybernetic enhancements, to Nomad technology, and even to the Nomads themselves.
It has been rumoured from time to time that the research facility is the command centre of the BDM, the Rheinland office of naval intelligence, but nothing has ever been confirmed or even slightly validated. No sortie sent against the base, from the Unioners, Red Hessians, or even one memorable attack from the Corsairs, has ever breached the station defences, and it seems likely that for now the secrets of Schatten will remain safe.
Schatten provides secrecy, anonymity and security for researchers and agents of the Büro and the Rheinwehr personnel. The safety measures within and around this station are the most stringent in Rheinland. Schatten is divided in several decks with different security levels. Even the Direktor of the BDM has to undergo these security checks, there are no exceptions. Nothing can enter or leave the station without the guards would get note of it. Primarily the station is used as a dry-dock for Büro ships while also harbouring some of Rheinland's finest minds, who work day and night on extensive research, experimental technology which is almost unimaginable physical responses to sudden warps through space and even inhumane experiments designed to push the limits of the human mind and body. The shipyard itself is well prepared to repair ships of all sizes. Regardless how heavy their damage may be, Schatten is able to repair them. However its capacity make it difficult to engage in mass production. The shipyard is currently focused in maintenance works and the construction of prototypes.
PLANET WEIMAR
OPERATORS:BDM, MND, Rheinland Military
DOCKING:[ RESTRICTED ]
DIAMETER:[ CLASSIFIED ]
MASS:[ CLASSIFIED ]
TERRAIN:[ CLASSIFIED ]
TEMPERATURE:[ CLASSIFIED ]
ESCAPE VELOCITY:[ CLASSIFIED ]
FUNCTION:
■ BDM Command and Control centre
■ Fallback point for federal government
■ Training ground for veteran agency personnel.
"Der Tempelberg"
The planet is often regarded as the centre of "The great purge" of 823A.S and the great lair of the Nomad Epidemic, this planet used to hold the last bastion of the Imperial Rheinland Empress Leicht's regime which consisted of a large network of underground tunnels, facilities and quarters that was comparable to a small city and appropriately named "Festung Fensalia.". This would be the fall-back position of the leaders of Imperial Rheinland along with a select chosen few high ranking civilians.
When the rising Nomad influence started to spread among the Chancellors Military ranks, one of the largest parties started to move their operations towards Weimar in an attempt to continue their covert manipulation of Rheinland and potentially ever other infected area of Sirius. This potentially gave them the failsafe they needed if their key positions within the populated areas started to fall, and this predication followed. Around 815A.S, Thuringia was known to be the last remaining stronghold of the Das Wilde and Nomad forces.
A large effort by the newly reformed MND in 823A.S and under new department leadership by the BDM. A massive operation was launched to retake what is the western half of Thuringia. While smashing what was the defence fleet of the outdated remnants of Chancellor Neimanns forces. The MND quickly turned their attention to the secured planet. Bombing runs were not going to eliminate the hardened fortress of the Imperial underground complex and so the final resolution to the problem was a long and bloodied ground conflict that spanned over a year and totalled upto almost 30,000 casualties of both Das Wilde and MND forces.
The battle continued towards the near end of 824A.S. to the cold harsh northern pole where the MND secured what was believed to be a Daam K'vosh relic site, comparable to a ancient city. Its purpose is yet unknown, but thanks to the harsh environment, only small scientific teams and a squad of field operatives are currently clustered in that area to ensure that the city won't fall into the hands of the Nomads and what ever the purpose of the relic site is, won't be used by them.
The planet is now under complete control of the MND, the underground complex of "Festung Fensalia" has now received massive financial injections from unlisted funding sources and a complete refit of its entire structure to ensure that its systems and defences were upto date. And now accommodates is place as a government and agency fall back position, its reinforced structure now fit to operate a maximum population of 50,000 people and plans for it to expand are under discussion. Its jungle is filled with dense and various types of fauna that mixed in with hallucinogenic and toxic attributes that have piqued interest within agents and scientists who might be able to abuse the properties of these plants. Its large mountains conceal landing zones that give it natural defensive properties against ground incursions but also favour the training of veteran agents who are entrusted to conceal the planets position and train to become the unquestioning and stone cold field operatives they've sacrificed to become.
We as offical faction, want to ensure a trouble-free and fair gameplay. To ensure this, we have put together a list, including a few rules of conduct.
General Behavior
- DiscoveryGC is a Role Play Server. Role Play is therefore required.
- Follow the Server Rules. Reckless violation of these rules, will not only be punished by the forum staff, but also by us.
- Never act if you are unsure what to do. Always ask us before you start something.
- Faction affairs are to stay within the faction. Locked channels exist for a reason and their contents are to be kept strictly to these channels. Pastry tastes are confidential as well.
Faction Role Play
- Keep your Role Play realistic. We do not sell any ice cream as intelligence agency, unless it is an experiment to study the effects of cardamine or other toxic substances on the human body. Should be obviously.
- Be taciturn in your action reports, only attach valid textual and graphic evidence.
- Act like an intelligent, well-trained, elite and enigmatic officer. Because that's exactly what we represent.
- Avoid conflicts whenever possible. We don't need more enemies.
- You may drink coffee or smoke during fulfilling your duties. Any drug intake, however, is prohibited.
PvP
- We are a special force. Don't waste our resources on small criminals or protesting farmers. You could, but we don't need to. Let the police or the military deal with them.
- Stay alive and flee if you can. Our resources are limited. Do not fight a hopeless war.
- We're striving to set up an example, regardless of being treated "unfairly" and facing a gank. Take it with due dignity and carry on to be that example. Exercise your objective judgement and consult High Command if in doubt, but remember - Server Rules take precedence, and must be referred to at all times.
Encounters with Nomads and Infectees
- Nomads should be treated with care. Try to not irritate them. Collect as many information of these creatures as you can, instead of attacking them on sight.
- Should their tentacles begin to spread sparks, or should they show any other aggressive behavior, feel free to destroy them.
- We as intelligence agency, do have the capability to scan for Wildes and detect a Nomad Incubus via modified body scanners. But these scanners are not portable, and, as every machinery - aren't immune to malfunction. So be reasonable in how you interact with infectee suspects. Plus bear in mind, ~[Fae tag is not visible inRP and you can not and must not utilise that in any shape of form as a valid evidence of incubi infection.
Special Equipment
- We use special equipment like: Cloaking devices, jump drives, nomad weaponry or even special ships, because our lore supports it and we work hard for this stuff.
- The use of this equipment should mainly serve the goal, to improve our faction RP and in-game encounters.
- You may use the equipment to flee from combat. You are not forced to become part of a kill message collection, if you don't want to. Regardless how much time your opponents have spent in Connecticut, or how much they will complain about that in forums, we fully support the use of equipment in order to flee from combat. But NEVER abuse our equipment or troll people!
- You may record a conversation and collect other information, while you are cloaked. It is not your fault, when people speak about secret plans in open channels, and they could simply switch to private ones.