Section 1: Title
This act shall be known as the Lilaris Department of Defense Act.
Section 2: Purpose
The purpose of this act is to:
- Establish the Department of Defense (DoD) as the Empire’s principal military and security authority.
- Define the structure, leadership, and operational responsibilities of the DoD.
- Ensure efficient coordination of national security in alignment with Imperial law and the Twin Thrones.
Section 3: Definitions
For the purposes of this act, unless the context otherwise requires:
- Department of Defense (DoD) – The principal body responsible for military operations, internal security, border defense, and intelligence coordination within the Second Lilaris Empire.
- Secretary of Defense (SECDEF) – The highest-ranking military official within the DoD, responsible for overseeing its operations and reporting directly to the Twin Thrones.
- National Security – The protection of Lilaris’ sovereignty, territorial integrity, and stability against internal and external threats, including but not limited to military conflicts, insurgencies, terrorism, and espionage.
- Imperial Defense Council (IDC) – A strategic advisory body composed of the Secretary of Defense, Lord Commanders, and select Dukes, responsible for reviewing military policy and strategic defense initiatives.
- Strategic Operations Command (SOC) – A specialized division within the DoD responsible for covert military operations, crisis response, and classified strategic initiatives.
- Defense Condition (DEFCON) – A tiered security alert system indicating the Empire’s military readiness and threat assessment level.
- Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) – Any weapon or device capable of large-scale destruction, including but not limited to high-yield explosives, biochemical agents, radiological or nuclear devices, or any weapon deemed unlawful by Imperial decree.
Section 4: Department of Defense Authority
4.1 - Establishment
The Department of Defense (DoD) is formally established as the Empire’s highest military and security authority, replacing any previous security councils or ad hoc defense structures.
4.2 - Jurisdiction
The DoD is responsible for overseeing:
- The Imperial Military – All armed forces operating under Lilaris, including provincial militias and noble-led forces.
- Internal Security – Suppression of internal rebellion, insurgencies, and treasonous activities.
- Border Defense – Protection and enforcement of Lilaris’ territorial integrity against external threats.
- Strategic Military Operations – High-priority defense planning, war strategy, and conflict deterrence.
- Imperial Intelligence Coordination – Intelligence, counterintelligence, and strategic security initiatives in coordination with the Department of State (DoS).
4.3 - Oversight and Accountability
The Secretary of Defense reports directly to the Twin Thrones and is responsible for implementing all defense policies. The DoD operates independently from the nobility, but noble commanders must comply with Imperial defense directives. All DoD operations must comply with the Imperial Charter, except in classified strategic operations, which require direct authorization from the Twin Thrones.
4.4 - Restrictions on Weapons of Mass Destruction
The development, possession, or deployment of WMDs within Imperial territory is strictly regulated. The use of a WMD is prohibited except under a DEFCON 1 declaration, which requires a unanimous vote of the Imperial Defense Council and explicit approval from both rulers of the Twin Thrones. Unauthorized use of a WMD shall be considered high treason and punished to the fullest extent of Imperial law.
Section 5: Leadership Structure
5.1 - The Twin Thrones
The Ehrveil and Alvaldi rulers serve as Commanders-in-Chief of the Imperial Military. They hold final authority over major military campaigns, WMD use, and high-level security matters.
5.2 - The Secretary of Defense
Appointed by the Twin Thrones as the highest-ranking military official. Oversees all military operations, intelligence, and strategic defense planning. Directs Lord Commanders, Dukes, and military divisions in times of war.
5.3 - Lord Commanders
High-ranking military leaders entrusted with Imperial defense, military campaigns, and strategic planning. Appointed from among proven military nobles, Imperial Knights, or decorated officers.
5.4 - The Imperial Defense Council
Comprised of Lord Commanders, Dukes with military jurisdiction, and the Secretary of Defense. Advises on military preparedness, security policy, and DEFCON escalations.
5.5 - Strategic Operations Command
Oversees covert military operations and crisis response initiatives. Operates with direct oversight from the Secretary of Defense and Imperial approval.
Section 6: Defense Condition Levels
The DEFCON system establishes five levels of national security readiness:
- DEFCON 5 – Normal peacetime operations.
- DEFCON 4 – Increased intelligence operations, heightened security measures.
- DEFCON 3 – Strategic positioning of forces in response to credible threats.
- DEFCON 2 – Full military readiness; imminent threat detected.
- DEFCON 1 – Maximum readiness; active engagement or invasion expected.
Authority to Change DEFCON Levels
The DoD has sole authority to adjust DEFCON levels based on national security assessments. A unanimous vote of the Imperial Defense Council is required to escalate to DEFCON 1.
Section 7: Implementation and Procedures
The DoD shall convene regular security briefings to assess and respond to threats. The Imperial Defense Council shall meet monthly to review military strategy. Operational decisions must be archived for Imperial oversight and historical recordkeeping. The DoD may coordinate with allied military forces when necessary.
Section 8: Amendments
Any amendments to this act must be proposed by the Secretary of Defense or the Imperial Defense Council and approved by the Twin Thrones in accordance with the Imperial Charter.
Section 9: Repeal and Transition from Previous Defense Structures
Any prior Ehrengardian military organizations or security councils are hereby dissolved. All former security and military functions are now transferred exclusively to the Department of Defense. Existing military commanders will be reviewed and reassigned under the new structure.