I PM'd you my characters, there are a few of them..
Renaming the three factions as BAF would streamline the operation, while causing loss of individualism and frustrating failed group invitations. End of the day its your decision but I'd vote for a merger.
The ranking system was never given a fair test, we established a new high command structure but never had the members to flesh it out and test its effectiveness. Of course, the ranks of SF will undoubtedly change when we merge with QCO to fit your already established structure, I don't expect to remain an Admiral.