HYDRA
Encyclopedia
HYDRA is a fictional terrorist organization in the Marvel Universe
.
Despite the name's capitalization per Marvel's official spelling, the name is not an acronym
but rather a reference to the mythical Lernaean Hydra
. The organization's motto references the myth of the Hydra, stating that "if a head is cut off, two more will take its place" proclaiming their resilience and growing strength in the face of resistance. HYDRA agents often wear distinctive green garb featuring a serpent motif.
#135. In its original continuity, it was headed by nondescript businessman Arnold Brown
, who was killed as S.H.I.E.L.D.
apparently crushed the organization. It soon returned, however, headed by Baron Wolfgang von Strucker
, with the support of the Nazi
Red Skull
; HYDRA's changing origin was one of Marvel's earliest retcons. After its initial defeat, several of its branches, such as its scientific branch A.I.M. (Advanced Idea Mechanics)
and the Secret Empire
, became independent.
through terrorist
and subversive
activities on various fronts, resulting in a fascist
New World Order. Its extent of operations is worldwide, always attempting to elude the ongoing counter-espionage operations by S.H.I.E.L.D. HYDRA is funded by Baron Strucker's personal fortune, based on his recovered hoard of Nazi plunder
from World War II, and funds established by the original leaders of the Japanese secret society that became HYDRA.
The organization is run with behind-the-scenes direction by Baron Strucker, alias Supreme Hydra. Under him is a central ruling committee; under them are individual division chiefs, and under them are the rank and file members and special agents.
In order to become a member of HYDRA, an individual must be a legal adult willing to submit to a thorough investigation of the applicant's personal background and to swear a death-oath of loyalty to HYDRA and its principles.
HYDRA personnel are issued cowled jumpsuits, which have included a number of designs over the years. Originally, the jumpsuits were green with a yellow H design, and later incorporated a red and brown color scheme, but in time were changed back to green with a serpent motif.
continuity is a long, tumultuous and convoluted one, spanning millennia ago to the third dynasty of Egypt
, with all references to the ancient group disappearing around the Renaissance. Its return came in the decades from the end of the Second World War
up to the present day, tied directly to surviving fugitive members of governments of Nazi Germany
and the Empire of Japan
.
A select few of the more politically-oriented members of the order of the evil mystical ninja
known as the Hand
would be recruited to form the rebirth of HYDRA as a cabal of Japanese ultranationalists
who plotted to overthrow the Japanese government, assassinate the prime minister, and install a right-wing anti-communist
government, which would rearm Japan.
Shortly upon joining HYDRA, Von Strucker seized control of the organization from its Japanese founders, and moved HYDRA's operations to a private island in the Pacific, named Hydra Island. The original HYDRA Island was invaded by the Leatherneck Raiders
and the Japanese Samurai Squad, and the base was destroyed. Strucker slowly steered the organization towards the goal of world domination. That campaign brought him into conflict with Charles Xavier
and the future Magneto
among others, and once HYDRA became more brazenly public in its operations, eventually led to the creation of the original agency known as S.H.I.E.L.D.
specifically to counter HYDRA's threat to world security. After apparently assassinating S.H.I.E.L.D.'s first executive director, Nick Fury
was appointed as executive director. HYDRA agents attempted to assassinate Nick Fury before his appointment as S.H.I.E.L.D.'s Director, but failed.
This decision, after several HYDRA campaigns including the failure of the world blackmail attempt using the Betatron Bomb, the creation of the Overkill Horn (designed to detonate all nuclear explosives worldwide), and the bio-engineered "Death-Spore" Bomb, led directly to von Strucker's first death at the hands of Fury and several deceived HYDRA operatives. In the wake of von Strucker's first death, the surviving elements of HYDRA broke into factions that each adopted its own reorganized modus operandi. Several of these factions developed "super-agents" that would occasionally break away in turn to become freelance operatives, or, in some rarer cases, superhero
es such as the first Spider-Woman
. Von Strucker was eventually revived and reunited several of the HYDRA factions under his leadership to renew his campaign against S.H.I.E.L.D. and humanity for several more years.
Despite his reorganization of the group, various independent HYDRA factions continue to operate around the Marvel Universe, and a HYDRA Civil War would later result. While Baron Helmut Zemo had Strucker placed in stasis for his own ends, Gorgon
and Strucker's second wife Elsbeth von Strucker mystically created a clone of Strucker who they set up to fail, allowing for a public execution of him, after which—as part of an alliance with the Hand
, they utilized an army of brainwashed superhero
es and supervillain
s, including Northstar
and Elektra
to launch a massive assault on S.H.I.E.L.D. The assault was ultimately repelled and Wolverine
would kill Gorgon.
HYDRA later planned an all out attack on the United States by smuggling missiles into New York for use in a planned bio-weapon assault on the Ogallala Aquifer
. They formed a distraction through using a team that had the duplicated powers of several Avengers (Iron Man
, Captain America
and former Avengers Thor
and Hawkeye
) but were inevitably foiled by Spider-Man
and the other New Avengers.
When Spider-Woman (Jessica Drew) was captured by S.H.I.E.L.D. during the events of Civil War, HYDRA stormed the S.H.I.E.L.D. Helicarrier
and freed her. Spider-Woman, a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent and member of the Avengers
, had been working for HYDRA under the orders of Nick Fury, deposed as Director of S.H.I.E.L.D. following the events of Secret War
, whom she was still loyal to. HYDRA revealed that they knew of her betrayal and wanted her to replace Viper as their current leader, for she was unstable. Spider-Woman refused their offer, destroying the HYDRA base she had been taken to in an explosion.
As Spider-Woman revealed her true identity as Queen Veranke
of the Skrull
Empire, HYDRA was left with a void in his control organization, filled by Congressman Woodman. Under his rule the young Hardball
, empowered by the Power Broker
is appointed as a double agent
, acting both as an Initiative recruit
and as an HYDRA spy with the role of gathering information about the Initiative and doing errands for HYDRA in exchange of secrecy and the expensive health care needed by his brother, a former UCWF
wrestler who was crippled on the ring.
Hardball however, deeply hurt and shamed by the compromises Woodman forces him to endure, and Komodo
's attempt to bail him out of HYDRA by telling his secrets to his field leader Gravity
, mercilessly kills Congressman Woodman in front of his subordinates. His ersatz coup d'état
pays off, and Hardball is appointed as the new Supreme Leader of the organization, severing every tie with his former life. His joining HYDRA however, was revealed to simply be caused by his having nowhere else to go. He surrenders to the Shadow Initiative, and is sent to the Negative Zone prison, destroying his HYDRA cell.
After the events of Secret Invasion
, Nick Fury discovers that S.H.I.E.L.D. was under the control of HYDRA, and apparently had been from the beginning. He also discovers a number of organizations under HYDRA's alleged control including the United States' FBI Science and Technology Branch, NSA and US Department of Treasury, as well as the Russian Main Intelligence Directorate
and Foreign Intelligence Service and the Canadian Security Intelligence Service
.
Meanwhile, after having to destroy HYDRA's undersea headquarters, Ichor - it had been infiltrated by the Skrull invasion force - Von Strucker decides to rebuild HYDRA from the ground up, and after learning that Fury has learned the truth, reconvenes the other main heads of HYDRA: Viper, Madame Hydra, Kraken
, and The Hive; as well as resurrecting The Gorgon
for the purpose of showing HYDRA's "True self" to the world.
The following characters are or were agents of HYDRA:
was presumed dead following the events of Ultimatum, J. Jonah Jameson
recalled the time when Spider-Man saved Tony Stark from an attack by HYDRA.
#91-94, where they are well underway with their plan to take over the world. This version is being led by Madame Hydra (Sue Storm, the Invisible Woman
in the regular Marvel universe) and her lover, Wolverine. Various other superhumans, including Captain America (now Captain Hydra), Iron Man and Slaymaster
, are agents of HYDRA in this world. One of the Exiles' foe, the original character Venger
later becomes an agent of HYDRA, as well as Boy-Bob Banner
.
. They are very similar to the normal HYDRA and wear the same green and yellow outfits, but with black eyes not red. They first appear in Super-Soldier #1 and are led by Lex Luthor (later known as Green Skull).
Marvel Universe
The Marvel Universe is the shared fictional universe where most comic book titles and other media published by Marvel Entertainment take place, including those featuring Marvel's most familiar characters, such as Spider-Man, the Hulk, the X-Men, and the Avengers.The Marvel Universe is further...
.
Despite the name's capitalization per Marvel's official spelling, the name is not an acronym
Acronym and initialism
Acronyms and initialisms are abbreviations formed from the initial components in a phrase or a word. These components may be individual letters or parts of words . There is no universal agreement on the precise definition of the various terms , nor on written usage...
but rather a reference to the mythical Lernaean Hydra
Lernaean Hydra
In Greek mythology, the Lernaean Hydra was an ancient nameless serpent-like chthonic water beast, with reptilian traits, that possessed many heads — the poets mention more heads than the vase-painters could paint, and for each head cut off it grew two more — and poisonous breath so virulent even...
. The organization's motto references the myth of the Hydra, stating that "if a head is cut off, two more will take its place" proclaiming their resilience and growing strength in the face of resistance. HYDRA agents often wear distinctive green garb featuring a serpent motif.
Publication history
The organization first appeared in Strange TalesStrange Tales
Strange Tales is the name of several comic book anthology series published by Marvel Comics. It introduced the features "Doctor Strange" and "Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.", and was a showcase for the science fiction/suspense stories of artists Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, and for the...
#135. In its original continuity, it was headed by nondescript businessman Arnold Brown
Imperial Hydra
Imperial Hydra is a fictional character in the Marvel Universe.-Publication history:The Imperial Hydra appeared in Strange Tales #135 , and was created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby....
, who was killed as S.H.I.E.L.D.
S.H.I.E.L.D.
S.H.I.E.L.D. is a fictional espionage and a secret military law-enforcement agency in the Marvel Comics Universe. Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in Strange Tales #135 , it often deals with superhuman threats....
apparently crushed the organization. It soon returned, however, headed by Baron Wolfgang von Strucker
Baron Strucker
Baron Wolfgang von Strucker is a fictional character created for Marvel Comics by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, first appearing in Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos #5...
, with the support of the Nazi
Nazism
Nazism, the common short form name of National Socialism was the ideology and practice of the Nazi Party and of Nazi Germany...
Red Skull
Red Skull
The Red Skull is a name shared by several fictional characters, all supervillains from the Marvel Comics universe. All incarnations of the character are enemies of Captain America, other superheroes, and the United States in general....
; HYDRA's changing origin was one of Marvel's earliest retcons. After its initial defeat, several of its branches, such as its scientific branch A.I.M. (Advanced Idea Mechanics)
Advanced Idea Mechanics
A.I.M. is a fictional terrorist organization in the . The organization first appeared in Strange Tales #146 and was created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby.-Publication history:...
and the Secret Empire
Secret Empire
-Fictional organization history:This subversive organization has been headed by a number of different leaders, always known as “Number One,” with each iteration's goals following the desires of its current leader. The Secret Empire was originally founded by a scientist who felt like an anonymous...
, became independent.
Organization
HYDRA is a criminal organization dedicated to the achievement of world dominationHegemony
Hegemony is an indirect form of imperial dominance in which the hegemon rules sub-ordinate states by the implied means of power rather than direct military force. In Ancient Greece , hegemony denoted the politico–military dominance of a city-state over other city-states...
through terrorist
Terrorism
Terrorism is the systematic use of terror, especially as a means of coercion. In the international community, however, terrorism has no universally agreed, legally binding, criminal law definition...
and subversive
Subversion (politics)
Subversion refers to an attempt to transform the established social order, its structures of power, authority, and hierarchy; examples of such structures include the State. In this context, a "subversive" is sometimes called a "traitor" with respect to the government in-power. A subversive is...
activities on various fronts, resulting in a fascist
Neo-Fascism
Neo-fascism is a post–World War II ideology that includes significant elements of fascism. The term neo-fascist may apply to groups that express a specific admiration for Benito Mussolini and Italian Fascism or any other fascist leader/state...
New World Order. Its extent of operations is worldwide, always attempting to elude the ongoing counter-espionage operations by S.H.I.E.L.D. HYDRA is funded by Baron Strucker's personal fortune, based on his recovered hoard of Nazi plunder
Nazi plunder
Nazi plunder refers to art theft and other items stolen as a result of the organized looting of European countries during the time of the Third Reich by agents acting on behalf of the ruling Nazi Party of Germany. Plundering occurred from 1933 until the end of World War II, particularly by military...
from World War II, and funds established by the original leaders of the Japanese secret society that became HYDRA.
The organization is run with behind-the-scenes direction by Baron Strucker, alias Supreme Hydra. Under him is a central ruling committee; under them are individual division chiefs, and under them are the rank and file members and special agents.
In order to become a member of HYDRA, an individual must be a legal adult willing to submit to a thorough investigation of the applicant's personal background and to swear a death-oath of loyalty to HYDRA and its principles.
Technology
HYDRA's level of technology is as highly advanced as that of any on Earth, based in part on technology of the alien Gnobians discovered by Baron von Strucker in 1944. HYDRA uses various advanced experimental vehicles and devices in its activities, and various conventional military vehicles, seacraft, aircraft, pistols and standard concussive force blasters, and conventional communications equipment.HYDRA personnel are issued cowled jumpsuits, which have included a number of designs over the years. Originally, the jumpsuits were green with a yellow H design, and later incorporated a red and brown color scheme, but in time were changed back to green with a serpent motif.
Fictional organization history
HYDRA's history as presently depicted in Marvel UniverseMarvel Universe
The Marvel Universe is the shared fictional universe where most comic book titles and other media published by Marvel Entertainment take place, including those featuring Marvel's most familiar characters, such as Spider-Man, the Hulk, the X-Men, and the Avengers.The Marvel Universe is further...
continuity is a long, tumultuous and convoluted one, spanning millennia ago to the third dynasty of Egypt
Third dynasty of Egypt
For the Sumerian Renaissance, see Third Dynasty of Ur.The Third Dynasty of ancient Egypt is the first dynasty of the Old Kingdom. Other dynasties of the Old Kingdom include the Fourth, Fifth and Sixth...
, with all references to the ancient group disappearing around the Renaissance. Its return came in the decades from the end of the Second World War
World War II
World War II, or the Second World War , was a global conflict lasting from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis...
up to the present day, tied directly to surviving fugitive members of governments of Nazi Germany
Nazi Germany
Nazi Germany , also known as the Third Reich , but officially called German Reich from 1933 to 1943 and Greater German Reich from 26 June 1943 onward, is the name commonly used to refer to the state of Germany from 1933 to 1945, when it was a totalitarian dictatorship ruled by...
and the Empire of Japan
Empire of Japan
The Empire of Japan is the name of the state of Japan that existed from the Meiji Restoration on 3 January 1868 to the enactment of the post-World War II Constitution of...
.
A select few of the more politically-oriented members of the order of the evil mystical ninja
Ninja
A or was a covert agent or mercenary of feudal Japan specializing in unorthodox arts of war. The functions of the ninja included espionage, sabotage, infiltration, and assassination, as well as open combat in certain situations...
known as the Hand
Hand (comics)
The Hand is a fictional supervillainous organization in the Marvel Comics universe.The Hand is an order of evil mystical ninja who are heavily involved in organized crime and mercenary activities such as assassination plots. The Hand covets power above all other objectives. They are primarily based...
would be recruited to form the rebirth of HYDRA as a cabal of Japanese ultranationalists
Uyoku dantai
Uyoku dantai are Japanese nationalist right-wing groups.In 1996, the National Police Agency estimated that there are over 1000 right wing groups in Japan with about 100,000 members in total.-Tennō period:...
who plotted to overthrow the Japanese government, assassinate the prime minister, and install a right-wing anti-communist
Anti-communism
Anti-communism is opposition to communism. Organized anti-communism developed in reaction to the rise of communism, especially after the 1917 October Revolution in Russia and the beginning of the Cold War in 1947.-Objections to communist theory:...
government, which would rearm Japan.
Shortly upon joining HYDRA, Von Strucker seized control of the organization from its Japanese founders, and moved HYDRA's operations to a private island in the Pacific, named Hydra Island. The original HYDRA Island was invaded by the Leatherneck Raiders
Leatherneck Raiders
The Leatherneck Raiders are a fictional World War II unit in comic books published by Marvel Comics. Created by Gary Friedrich and Dick Ayers, they were a specially trained tactical commando squad...
and the Japanese Samurai Squad, and the base was destroyed. Strucker slowly steered the organization towards the goal of world domination. That campaign brought him into conflict with Charles Xavier
Professor X
Professor Charles Francis Xavier, also known as Professor X, is a fictional character, a Marvel Comics superhero known as the leader and founder of the X-Men....
and the future Magneto
Magneto (comics)
Magneto is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. He is the central villain of the X-Men comic, as well as the TV show and the films. The character first appears in X-Men #1 , and was created by writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby...
among others, and once HYDRA became more brazenly public in its operations, eventually led to the creation of the original agency known as S.H.I.E.L.D.
S.H.I.E.L.D.
S.H.I.E.L.D. is a fictional espionage and a secret military law-enforcement agency in the Marvel Comics Universe. Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in Strange Tales #135 , it often deals with superhuman threats....
specifically to counter HYDRA's threat to world security. After apparently assassinating S.H.I.E.L.D.'s first executive director, Nick Fury
Nick Fury
Colonel Nicholas Joseph "Nick" Fury is a fictional World War II army hero and present-day super-spy in the Marvel Comics universe. Created by artist Jack Kirby and writer Stan Lee, Fury first appeared in Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos #1 , a World War II combat series that portrayed the...
was appointed as executive director. HYDRA agents attempted to assassinate Nick Fury before his appointment as S.H.I.E.L.D.'s Director, but failed.
This decision, after several HYDRA campaigns including the failure of the world blackmail attempt using the Betatron Bomb, the creation of the Overkill Horn (designed to detonate all nuclear explosives worldwide), and the bio-engineered "Death-Spore" Bomb, led directly to von Strucker's first death at the hands of Fury and several deceived HYDRA operatives. In the wake of von Strucker's first death, the surviving elements of HYDRA broke into factions that each adopted its own reorganized modus operandi. Several of these factions developed "super-agents" that would occasionally break away in turn to become freelance operatives, or, in some rarer cases, superhero
Superhero
A superhero is a type of stock character, possessing "extraordinary or superhuman powers", dedicated to protecting the public. Since the debut of the prototypical superhero Superman in 1938, stories of superheroes — ranging from brief episodic adventures to continuing years-long sagas —...
es such as the first Spider-Woman
Spider-Woman (Jessica Drew)
Spider-Woman is a fictional character, a superheroine in the Marvel Comics Universe. The character first appeared in Marvel Spotlight #32 , and 50 issues of an ongoing series titled Spider-Woman followed...
. Von Strucker was eventually revived and reunited several of the HYDRA factions under his leadership to renew his campaign against S.H.I.E.L.D. and humanity for several more years.
Despite his reorganization of the group, various independent HYDRA factions continue to operate around the Marvel Universe, and a HYDRA Civil War would later result. While Baron Helmut Zemo had Strucker placed in stasis for his own ends, Gorgon
Gorgon (Tomi Shishido)
The Gorgon is the name of a comic book character associated with the X-Men member Wolverine. He first appeared in Wolverine #20, and was created by Mark Millar and John Romita, Jr. The character was killed in Wolverine #31, only to be resurrected later in Secret Warriors #2...
and Strucker's second wife Elsbeth von Strucker mystically created a clone of Strucker who they set up to fail, allowing for a public execution of him, after which—as part of an alliance with the Hand
Hand (comics)
The Hand is a fictional supervillainous organization in the Marvel Comics universe.The Hand is an order of evil mystical ninja who are heavily involved in organized crime and mercenary activities such as assassination plots. The Hand covets power above all other objectives. They are primarily based...
, they utilized an army of brainwashed superhero
Superhero
A superhero is a type of stock character, possessing "extraordinary or superhuman powers", dedicated to protecting the public. Since the debut of the prototypical superhero Superman in 1938, stories of superheroes — ranging from brief episodic adventures to continuing years-long sagas —...
es and supervillain
Supervillain
A supervillain or supervillainess is a variant of the villain character type, commonly found in comic books, action movies and science fiction in various media.They are sometimes used as foils to superheroes and other fictional heroes...
s, including Northstar
Northstar
Northstar is a fictional character, a superhero who appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. He is the twin brother of Aurora. Through his mutation, Northstar gains superhuman powers, which he uses for the betterment of society...
and Elektra
Elektra (comics)
Elektra Natchios, usually referred to only by her first name Elektra, is a fictional character in publications from Marvel Comics.Elektra is a kunoichi – female ninja assassin – of Greek descent. She wields a pair of bladed sai as her trademark weapon. She is a love interest of the superhero...
to launch a massive assault on S.H.I.E.L.D. The assault was ultimately repelled and Wolverine
Wolverine (comics)
Wolverine is a fictional character, a superhero that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. Born as James Howlett and commonly known as Logan, Wolverine is a mutant, possessing animal-keen senses, enhanced physical capabilities, three retracting bone claws on each hand and a healing...
would kill Gorgon.
HYDRA later planned an all out attack on the United States by smuggling missiles into New York for use in a planned bio-weapon assault on the Ogallala Aquifer
Ogallala Aquifer
The Ogallala Aquifer, also known as the High Plains Aquifer, is a vast yet shallow underground water table aquifer located beneath the Great Plains in the United States...
. They formed a distraction through using a team that had the duplicated powers of several Avengers (Iron Man
Iron Man
Iron Man is a fictional character, a superhero in the . The character was created by writer-editor Stan Lee, developed by scripter Larry Lieber, and designed by artists Don Heck and Jack Kirby, first appearing in Tales of Suspense #39 .A billionaire playboy, industrialist and ingenious engineer,...
, Captain America
Captain America
Captain America is a fictional character, a superhero that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Captain America Comics #1 , from Marvel Comics' 1940s predecessor, Timely Comics, and was created by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby...
and former Avengers Thor
Thor (Marvel Comics)
Thor is a fictional superhero who appears in publications published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Journey into Mystery #83 and was created by editor-plotter Stan Lee, scripter Larry Lieber, and penciller Jack Kirby....
and Hawkeye
Hawkeye (comics)
Hawkeye , also known as Goliath and Ronin, is a fictional character that appears in the comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Tales of Suspense #57 and was created by writer Stan Lee and artist Don Heck. Hawkeye joined the Avengers in Avengers Vol. 1 #16 Hawkeye...
) but were inevitably foiled by Spider-Man
Spider-Man
Spider-Man is a fictional Marvel Comics superhero. The character was created by writer-editor Stan Lee and writer-artist Steve Ditko. He first appeared in Amazing Fantasy #15...
and the other New Avengers.
When Spider-Woman (Jessica Drew) was captured by S.H.I.E.L.D. during the events of Civil War, HYDRA stormed the S.H.I.E.L.D. Helicarrier
Helicarrier
The Helicarrier is a fictional flying aircraft carrier specifically designed to be capable of independent powered flight in addition to the conventional functions of aircraft carriers...
and freed her. Spider-Woman, a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent and member of the Avengers
Avengers (comics)
The Avengers is a fictional team of superheroes, appearing in magazines published by Marvel Comics. The team made its debut in The Avengers #1 The Avengers is a fictional team of superheroes, appearing in magazines published by Marvel Comics. The team made its debut in The Avengers #1 The Avengers...
, had been working for HYDRA under the orders of Nick Fury, deposed as Director of S.H.I.E.L.D. following the events of Secret War
Secret War (comics)
Secret War is a five-issue comic book limited series published by Marvel Comics. The series is written by Brian Michael Bendis and painted by Gabriele Dell'Otto...
, whom she was still loyal to. HYDRA revealed that they knew of her betrayal and wanted her to replace Viper as their current leader, for she was unstable. Spider-Woman refused their offer, destroying the HYDRA base she had been taken to in an explosion.
As Spider-Woman revealed her true identity as Queen Veranke
Veranke
Veranke is a fictional character created by Marvel Comics who serves as the queen of the Skrull empire in the Marvel Universe. She plays a significant role in the events of Secret Invasion as she leads her empire to invade and conquer Earth....
of the Skrull
Skrull
The Skrulls are a fictional race of extraterrestrial shapeshifters that appear in publications by Marvel Comics.-Publication history:The Skrulls first appeared in Fantastic Four #2 and were created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby....
Empire, HYDRA was left with a void in his control organization, filled by Congressman Woodman. Under his rule the young Hardball
Hardball (comics)
Hardball is a fictional comic book superhero in the Marvel Comics universe. He was created by writer Dan Slott and artist Stefano Caselli, and first appeared in Avengers: The Initiative #1 ....
, empowered by the Power Broker
Power Broker
Power Broker is the name of two characters in Marvel Comics.Power Broker, Inc. is a fictional criminal corporation in the Marvel Universe which provides individuals with superhuman physical abilities for a price...
is appointed as a double agent
Double agent
A double agent, commonly abbreviated referral of double secret agent, is a counterintelligence term used to designate an employee of a secret service or organization, whose primary aim is to spy on the target organization, but who in fact is a member of that same target organization oneself. They...
, acting both as an Initiative recruit
Fifty State Initiative
The Fifty State Initiative, often referred to as simply The Initiative, is a fictional governmental plan that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics, in particular those related to The Avengers...
and as an HYDRA spy with the role of gathering information about the Initiative and doing errands for HYDRA in exchange of secrecy and the expensive health care needed by his brother, a former UCWF
Unlimited Class Wrestling Federation
The Unlimited Class Wrestling Federation is a fictional organization in the Marvel Comics Universe. It is an association for professional wrestlers who possess superhuman strength, endurance and resistance to injury.- Overview :...
wrestler who was crippled on the ring.
Hardball however, deeply hurt and shamed by the compromises Woodman forces him to endure, and Komodo
Komodo (comics)
Komodo is the name of two fictional characters in the Marvel Comics Universe.-New Men:The first Komodo is one of the New Men, creatures evolved by the High Evolutionary from a lizard. He accompanied the Ani-Men on their clean-up mission at the Jackal's laboratory and fought the Scarlet Spider...
's attempt to bail him out of HYDRA by telling his secrets to his field leader Gravity
Gravity (comics)
Gravity is a fictional character, a superhero in the Marvel Comics universe. He first appeared in Gravity #1 and was created by Sean McKeever and Mike Norton.-Publication history:...
, mercilessly kills Congressman Woodman in front of his subordinates. His ersatz coup d'état
Coup d'état
A coup d'état state, literally: strike/blow of state)—also known as a coup, putsch, and overthrow—is the sudden, extrajudicial deposition of a government, usually by a small group of the existing state establishment—typically the military—to replace the deposed government with another body; either...
pays off, and Hardball is appointed as the new Supreme Leader of the organization, severing every tie with his former life. His joining HYDRA however, was revealed to simply be caused by his having nowhere else to go. He surrenders to the Shadow Initiative, and is sent to the Negative Zone prison, destroying his HYDRA cell.
After the events of Secret Invasion
Secret Invasion
"Secret Invasion" is a comic book crossover storyline that ran through a self-titled eight issue limited series and several tie-in books published by Marvel Comics from April through December 2008....
, Nick Fury discovers that S.H.I.E.L.D. was under the control of HYDRA, and apparently had been from the beginning. He also discovers a number of organizations under HYDRA's alleged control including the United States' FBI Science and Technology Branch, NSA and US Department of Treasury, as well as the Russian Main Intelligence Directorate
GRU
GRU or Glavnoye Razvedyvatel'noye Upravleniye is the foreign military intelligence directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation...
and Foreign Intelligence Service and the Canadian Security Intelligence Service
Canadian Security Intelligence Service
The Canadian Security Intelligence Service is Canada's national intelligence service. It is responsible for collecting, analyzing, reporting and disseminating intelligence on threats to Canada's national security, and conducting operations, covert and overt, within Canada and abroad.Its...
.
Meanwhile, after having to destroy HYDRA's undersea headquarters, Ichor - it had been infiltrated by the Skrull invasion force - Von Strucker decides to rebuild HYDRA from the ground up, and after learning that Fury has learned the truth, reconvenes the other main heads of HYDRA: Viper, Madame Hydra, Kraken
Kraken (Marvel Comics)
The Kraken is a name given to several aquatic monsters inspired by the legend of Kraken and several characters that have appeared primarily in DC Comics and Marvel Comics publications.-Kraken:...
, and The Hive; as well as resurrecting The Gorgon
Gorgon (Tomi Shishido)
The Gorgon is the name of a comic book character associated with the X-Men member Wolverine. He first appeared in Wolverine #20, and was created by Mark Millar and John Romita, Jr. The character was killed in Wolverine #31, only to be resurrected later in Secret Warriors #2...
for the purpose of showing HYDRA's "True self" to the world.
Membership
The Ruling Council of HYDRA, introduced in Secret Warriors #2, consists of:- Baron Wolfgang von StruckerBaron StruckerBaron Wolfgang von Strucker is a fictional character created for Marvel Comics by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, first appearing in Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos #5...
- Supreme Hydra - revealed in Strange TalesStrange TalesStrange Tales is the name of several comic book anthology series published by Marvel Comics. It introduced the features "Doctor Strange" and "Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.", and was a showcase for the science fiction/suspense stories of artists Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, and for the...
#150 (Nov 1966) - ViperViper (Madame Hydra)Viper, formerly known as Madame Hydra, is a fictional character in the Marvel Comics universe who is a foe of the Avengers and the X-Men...
- Leader of New York City HYDRA. First appeared in Captain AmericaCaptain AmericaCaptain America is a fictional character, a superhero that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Captain America Comics #1 , from Marvel Comics' 1940s predecessor, Timely Comics, and was created by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby...
#110 (Feb 1969) - Valentina Allegra de FontaineValentina Allegra de FontaineLa Contessa Valentina Allegra de la Fontaine is a fictional, comic book espionage agent in the Marvel Comics universe. Created by writer-artist Jim Steranko, she first appeared in the "Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D." feature in Strange Tales #159 .-Publication history:The Contessa appeared...
- Former S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent. First appeared in Strange Tales #159 (Aug 1967). She was later revealed to be Madame Hydra VI. - Commander KrakenCommander KrakenCommander Kraken is a fictional character in the Marvel Universe.-Publication history:Commander Kraken first appeared in Sub-Mariner #27 , and was created by Roy Thomas and Sal Buscema....
- Naval Action Division Leader, East. First pictured as HYDRA leader in DaredevilDaredevil (Marvel Comics)Daredevil is a fictional character, a superhero in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character was created by writer-editor Stan Lee and artist Bill Everett, with an unspecified amount of input from Jack Kirby, and first appeared in Daredevil #1 .Living in the Hell's Kitchen neighborhood...
#121 (May 1975) - The Hive - Introduced in Secret WarriorsSecret WarriorsThe Secret Warriors is a Marvel series featuring Nick Fury and Team White, a fictional team of superpowered agents in the . Created by Brian Michael Bendis and Alex Maleev, the characters were introduced in Mighty Avengers #13, and debuted as a team in Secret Invasion #3, both published in...
#2 - The GorgonGorgon (Tomi Shishido)The Gorgon is the name of a comic book character associated with the X-Men member Wolverine. He first appeared in Wolverine #20, and was created by Mark Millar and John Romita, Jr. The character was killed in Wolverine #31, only to be resurrected later in Secret Warriors #2...
- First appeared in Wolverine (vol.2) #20 - KrakenKraken (Marvel Comics)The Kraken is a name given to several aquatic monsters inspired by the legend of Kraken and several characters that have appeared primarily in DC Comics and Marvel Comics publications.-Kraken:...
- First appeared in Secret Warriors #2.
The following characters are or were agents of HYDRA:
- Werner von StruckerWerner von StruckerWerner von Strucker is a fictional character in the Marvel Comics universe.-Fictional character biography:Werner von Strucker is the oldest son of Baron Wolfgang von Strucker and the half-brother of twins Andrea and Andreas von Strucker....
- Eldest son of Wolfgang (deceased) - Arnold BrownImperial HydraImperial Hydra is a fictional character in the Marvel Universe.-Publication history:The Imperial Hydra appeared in Strange Tales #135 , and was created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby....
- Imperial Hydra who was the organization's figurehead. First appeared in Strange TalesStrange TalesStrange Tales is the name of several comic book anthology series published by Marvel Comics. It introduced the features "Doctor Strange" and "Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.", and was a showcase for the science fiction/suspense stories of artists Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, and for the...
#135 (Aug 1965) - Laura Brown - Special Hydra Agent H (later G). First appeared in Strange TalesStrange TalesStrange Tales is the name of several comic book anthology series published by Marvel Comics. It introduced the features "Doctor Strange" and "Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.", and was a showcase for the science fiction/suspense stories of artists Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, and for the...
#135 (Aug 1965) - MentalloMentalloMentallo is a fictional comic book supervillain, a mutant who appears in books published by Marvel Comics.After having been fired for cause after attempting a covert takeover of S.H.I.E.L.D., he has since operated as both a freelance criminal and subversive and a high-ranking agent of...
- Special Agent, HYDRA fragment. First appeared in Strange TalesStrange TalesStrange Tales is the name of several comic book anthology series published by Marvel Comics. It introduced the features "Doctor Strange" and "Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.", and was a showcase for the science fiction/suspense stories of artists Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, and for the...
#141 (Feb 1966) - FixerFixer (comics)The Fixer is a name used by two fictional characters, both of are which were introduced as villains in the Marvel Comics universe.-Roscoe Sweeney:...
- Special Agent, HYDRA fragment. First appeared in Strange TalesStrange TalesStrange Tales is the name of several comic book anthology series published by Marvel Comics. It introduced the features "Doctor Strange" and "Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.", and was a showcase for the science fiction/suspense stories of artists Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, and for the...
#141 (Feb 1966) - Anton Trojak - Annil-Agent, 47, Scientist (deceased). First appeared in Strange TalesStrange TalesStrange Tales is the name of several comic book anthology series published by Marvel Comics. It introduced the features "Doctor Strange" and "Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.", and was a showcase for the science fiction/suspense stories of artists Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, and for the...
#155 (Apr 1967) - Robert Rickard - HYDRA Agent U (deceased). First appeared in Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.Nick FuryColonel Nicholas Joseph "Nick" Fury is a fictional World War II army hero and present-day super-spy in the Marvel Comics universe. Created by artist Jack Kirby and writer Stan Lee, Fury first appeared in Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos #1 , a World War II combat series that portrayed the...
#12 (May 1969) - Karl Kraus - Double Agent for HYDRA. First appeared in Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.Nick FuryColonel Nicholas Joseph "Nick" Fury is a fictional World War II army hero and present-day super-spy in the Marvel Comics universe. Created by artist Jack Kirby and writer Stan Lee, Fury first appeared in Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos #1 , a World War II combat series that portrayed the...
#14 (Sep 1969) - Number 72 - Leader of HYDRA fragment. First appeared in Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.Nick FuryColonel Nicholas Joseph "Nick" Fury is a fictional World War II army hero and present-day super-spy in the Marvel Comics universe. Created by artist Jack Kirby and writer Stan Lee, Fury first appeared in Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos #1 , a World War II combat series that portrayed the...
#14 (Sep 1969) - Zach Wood - Leader of Orlando HYDRA. First appeared in Captain AmericaCaptain AmericaCaptain America is a fictional character, a superhero that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Captain America Comics #1 , from Marvel Comics' 1940s predecessor, Timely Comics, and was created by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby...
#110 (Feb 1969) - Richard FiskRichard FiskRichard Fisk is a fictional character, a criminal in the , featured in the comic books published by Marvel Comics. He is the son of the Kingpin and his wife Vanessa Fisk...
- "Supreme Hydra" of Las Vegas HYDRA fragment. First appeared as HYDRA member in Captain AmericaCaptain AmericaCaptain America is a fictional character, a superhero that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Captain America Comics #1 , from Marvel Comics' 1940s predecessor, Timely Comics, and was created by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby...
#145 (Jan 1972) - KingpinKingpin (comics)The Kingpin is a fictional character, a supervillain in the . Kingpin is one of the most feared and powerful crime lords in the Marvel Universe. The character is a major adversary of Daredevil, the Punisher, and Spider-Man...
- Actual director of Las Vegas HYDRA. First appeared as HYDRA leader in Captain AmericaCaptain AmericaCaptain America is a fictional character, a superhero that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Captain America Comics #1 , from Marvel Comics' 1940s predecessor, Timely Comics, and was created by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby...
#147 (Mar 1972) - Red SkullRed SkullThe Red Skull is a name shared by several fictional characters, all supervillains from the Marvel Comics universe. All incarnations of the character are enemies of Captain America, other superheroes, and the United States in general....
- True leader of Las Vegas HYDRA. Revealed as HYDRA leader in Captain AmericaCaptain AmericaCaptain America is a fictional character, a superhero that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Captain America Comics #1 , from Marvel Comics' 1940s predecessor, Timely Comics, and was created by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby...
#148 (Apr 1972) - ChameleonChameleon (comics)The Chameleon is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appears in The Amazing Spider-Man #1 , and was created by writer Stan Lee and artist Steve Ditko; the Chameleon is the first member of Spider-Man's rogues' gallery, based on issue...
- Sometime HYDRA employee. Worked for HYDRA in Incredible HulkHulk (comics)The Hulk is a fictional character, a superhero in the . Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, the character first appeared in The Incredible Hulk #1 ....
#154 (Aug 1972) - SilvermaneSilvermane (comics)Silvermane is a fictional Marvel Comics character. He is a supervillain and a prominent figure in the Maggia, a fictional organized crime syndicate that is analogous to the Mafia. He first appeared in The Amazing Spider-Man, Volume 1 #73...
- "Supreme Hydra" of East Coast. First appears as HYDRA leader in DaredevilDaredevil (Marvel Comics)Daredevil is a fictional character, a superhero in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character was created by writer-editor Stan Lee and artist Bill Everett, with an unspecified amount of input from Jack Kirby, and first appeared in Daredevil #1 .Living in the Hell's Kitchen neighborhood...
#120 (Apr 1975) - BlackwingBlackwingBlackwing is the name of two fictional Marvel Comics supervillains and one hero.-Joseph Manfredi:Joseph Manfredi was born in Orlando, Florida, and is the son of the crime lord Silvermane. When he debuted, he was a costumed animal trainer for the Ringmaster's Circus of Crime...
- Air Action Division Leader, East Coast. First appeared in DaredevilDaredevil (Marvel Comics)Daredevil is a fictional character, a superhero in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character was created by writer-editor Stan Lee and artist Bill Everett, with an unspecified amount of input from Jack Kirby, and first appeared in Daredevil #1 .Living in the Hell's Kitchen neighborhood...
#118 (Feb 1975) - JackhammerJackhammer (comics)Jackhammer is a fictional character from the Marvel Comics universe.-Publication history:Jackhammer was first mentioned as a HYDRA leader in Daredevil #121; he first appeared in Daredevil #123 and was created by Tony Isabella and Bob Brown.The character subsequently appears in Captain America...
- Engineer Corps leader, East Coast. First appeared in DaredevilDaredevil (Marvel Comics)Daredevil is a fictional character, a superhero in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character was created by writer-editor Stan Lee and artist Bill Everett, with an unspecified amount of input from Jack Kirby, and first appeared in Daredevil #1 .Living in the Hell's Kitchen neighborhood...
#123 (Jul 1975) - El JaguarJaguar (Marvel Comics)Jaguar is a Marvel Comics supervillain.-Publication history:El Jaguar first appeared in Daredevil #120-123 , and was created by Tony Isabella and Bob Brown...
- Commando Division Leader, East (deceased). First appeared in DaredevilDaredevil (Marvel Comics)Daredevil is a fictional character, a superhero in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character was created by writer-editor Stan Lee and artist Bill Everett, with an unspecified amount of input from Jack Kirby, and first appeared in Daredevil #1 .Living in the Hell's Kitchen neighborhood...
#120 (Apr 1975) - The Fox - Administration Division Leader, East. First appeared in Strange TalesStrange TalesStrange Tales is the name of several comic book anthology series published by Marvel Comics. It introduced the features "Doctor Strange" and "Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.", and was a showcase for the science fiction/suspense stories of artists Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, and for the...
Annual #2 (Sep 1963) - Man-KillerMan-KillerThe Man-Killer is a fictional supervillain in Marvel Comics' universe.-Publication history:Man-Killer first appeared in Marvel Team-Up volume 1 #8 by Gerry Conway and Jim Mooney....
- Assassins Division Leader, East. First appeared as HYDRA leader in DaredevilDaredevil (Marvel Comics)Daredevil is a fictional character, a superhero in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character was created by writer-editor Stan Lee and artist Bill Everett, with an unspecified amount of input from Jack Kirby, and first appeared in Daredevil #1 .Living in the Hell's Kitchen neighborhood...
#123 (Jul 1975) - Space PhantomSpace PhantomSpace Phantom is a name given to a number of fictional characters in the Marvel Comics universe. The first appearance of such a being was in Avengers vol. 1 #2 , they were created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby.-Fictional character biography:...
- Revealed as HYDRA leader in AvengersAvengers (comics)The Avengers is a fictional team of superheroes, appearing in magazines published by Marvel Comics. The team made its debut in The Avengers #1 The Avengers is a fictional team of superheroes, appearing in magazines published by Marvel Comics. The team made its debut in The Avengers #1 The Avengers...
#106 (Dec 1972) - Grim ReaperGrim Reaper (comics)Grim Reaper is a fictional character, a comic book supervillain in the Marvel Comics universe. He first appeared in The Avengers #52 May , by Roy Thomas and John Buscema.-Fictional character biography:...
- Self-appointed head, New York HYDRA fragment. Revealed as HYDRA leader in AvengersAvengers (comics)The Avengers is a fictional team of superheroes, appearing in magazines published by Marvel Comics. The team made its debut in The Avengers #1 The Avengers is a fictional team of superheroes, appearing in magazines published by Marvel Comics. The team made its debut in The Avengers #1 The Avengers...
#106 (Dec 1972) - Bull's Eye - Hired assassin employed by HYDRA. First appeared in Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.Nick FuryColonel Nicholas Joseph "Nick" Fury is a fictional World War II army hero and present-day super-spy in the Marvel Comics universe. Created by artist Jack Kirby and writer Stan Lee, Fury first appeared in Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos #1 , a World War II combat series that portrayed the...
#15 (Nov 1969) - Count Otto VermisCount Otto VermisCount Otto Vermis was the leader of HYDRA's European branch. His only appearance was in Marvel Spotlight #32 , the book that featured the first appearance of Spider-Woman....
- Leader of European HYDRA fragment (deceased). First appeared in Marvel SpotlightMarvel SpotlightMarvel Spotlight is the name of several comic book series published by Marvel Comics as a try-out book for new characters. The first series ran for 33 issues from November 1971 to April 1977...
#32 (Feb 1977) - Spider-Woman ISpider-Woman (Jessica Drew)Spider-Woman is a fictional character, a superheroine in the Marvel Comics Universe. The character first appeared in Marvel Spotlight #32 , and 50 issues of an ongoing series titled Spider-Woman followed...
- Special Agent. First appeared in Marvel SpotlightMarvel SpotlightMarvel Spotlight is the name of several comic book series published by Marvel Comics as a try-out book for new characters. The first series ran for 33 issues from November 1971 to April 1977...
#32 (Feb 1977) - Jared Kurtz - HYDRA Agent, Europe. First appeared in Marvel SpotlightMarvel SpotlightMarvel Spotlight is the name of several comic book series published by Marvel Comics as a try-out book for new characters. The first series ran for 33 issues from November 1971 to April 1977...
#32 (Feb 1977) - William Darvin - Agent of Corporate HYDRA (deceased). First appeared in Team AmericaThunderidersThunderiders, originally known as Team America, is a fictional superhero/motorcycle team from the Marvel Comics. They first appeared in Captain America #269 as Team America and were created by J. M...
#1 (Jun 1982) - James Winderfield - Part-time Agent, Corporate HYDRA. First appeared in Team AmericaThunderidersThunderiders, originally known as Team America, is a fictional superhero/motorcycle team from the Marvel Comics. They first appeared in Captain America #269 as Team America and were created by J. M...
#11 (Apr 1983) - Nancy Winderfield - Part-time Agent, Corporate HYDRA. First appeared in Team AmericaThunderidersThunderiders, originally known as Team America, is a fictional superhero/motorcycle team from the Marvel Comics. They first appeared in Captain America #269 as Team America and were created by J. M...
#11 (Apr 1983) - Elsie Carson - Former Southwestern U.S. Regional Field Director, Corporate HYDRA; First appeared in Team AmericaThunderidersThunderiders, originally known as Team America, is a fictional superhero/motorcycle team from the Marvel Comics. They first appeared in Captain America #269 as Team America and were created by J. M...
#11 (Apr 1983) - Ralph Sanzetti - Assassin, Corporate HYDRA (deceased). First appeared in Team AmericaThunderidersThunderiders, originally known as Team America, is a fictional superhero/motorcycle team from the Marvel Comics. They first appeared in Captain America #269 as Team America and were created by J. M...
#12 (May 1983) - George Fistal
- HardballHardball (comics)Hardball is a fictional comic book superhero in the Marvel Comics universe. He was created by writer Dan Slott and artist Stefano Caselli, and first appeared in Avengers: The Initiative #1 ....
- Former member of The InitiativeFifty State InitiativeThe Fifty State Initiative, often referred to as simply The Initiative, is a fictional governmental plan that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics, in particular those related to The Avengers...
. - Carmilla Black - Hardball's lover and former agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.S.H.I.E.L.D.S.H.I.E.L.D. is a fictional espionage and a secret military law-enforcement agency in the Marvel Comics Universe. Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in Strange Tales #135 , it often deals with superhuman threats....
- Madame HYDRA II
- CripplerCrippler (comics)Crippler is a fictional character in the Marvel Universe.Crippler is a mercenary who was once a member of HYDRA, but later quit to become a vigilante and later member of Silver Sable's Wild Pack.-Fictional character biography:...
- Sathan (deceased) -
- Ron Takimoto (deceased) -
- Lieutenant Cassandra Romulus -
- Lieutenant Guillotine -
- Agent Dakini -
- Lieutenant Garrotte -
- Lieutenant Saltz -
- Sergeant Batrel -
- Ms. Fischer - appears in Secret Warriors #2.
- S.H.I.E.L.D. Super-Agents
- Knockabout -
- Psi-Borg -
- Violence -
- Bob, Agent of HYDRABob, Agent of HYDRABob, Agent of HYDRA, is a fictional mercenary in the Marvel Comics Universe, and a sidekick of Deadpool.-Publication history:Bob returns in Deadpool #6-7 , "How Low Can You Go?", which deals with the implications of Dark Reign, the Secret Invasion aftermath. Writer Daniel Way has said "From day...
- Footsoldier of HYDRA. First appeared in Cable & DeadpoolCable & DeadpoolCable & Deadpool was a comic book series published by Marvel Comics beginning in 2004. The title characters, Cable and Deadpool, shared the focus of the book. The series was launched following the cancellation of the characters' previous ongoing solo series. The book's mix of humor, action, and...
#38 (2007) - Congressman Woodman - Commander of Washington D.C. Branch of HYDRA. First appeared in Avengers: The InitiativeAvengers: The InitiativeAvengers: The Initiative was a comic book series from Marvel Comics. Written by Dan Slott and Christos Gage with artwork initially by Stefano Caselli, Steve Uy and Harvey Tolibao, the series dealt with the aftermath of Marvel's Civil War crossover Avengers: The Initiative was a comic book series...
(2007) - Elliot Kohl' - First appeared in She-HulkShe-HulkShe-Hulk is a Marvel Comics superheroine. Created by writer Stan Lee and artist John Buscema, she first appeared in Savage She-Hulk #1 ....
#7, June 2006. Soldier, now imprisoned. - D.O.A. - Short for Department of Occult Armaments. First appeared in NightStalkersNightstalkers (comics)The Nightstalkers is a fictional trio of preexisting characters in comic books published by Marvel Comics. A team of occult experts, they reluctantly banded together to fight supernatural threats....
Vol. 1, No. 2, Dec 1992- Lieutenant Belial - Founder of D.O.A.
- Malpractice -
- Innards -
- Rotwrap -
- Pyre -
- Ms. Fisher - HYDRA recruiter. First appeared in Secret Warriors #12
- HYDRA Four - First Appeared in Amazing Spider-Man #520.
- Bowman - HYDRA's version of HawkeyeHawkeye (comics)Hawkeye , also known as Goliath and Ronin, is a fictional character that appears in the comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Tales of Suspense #57 and was created by writer Stan Lee and artist Don Heck. Hawkeye joined the Avengers in Avengers Vol. 1 #16 Hawkeye...
. - Hammer - HYDRA's version of ThorThor (Marvel Comics)Thor is a fictional superhero who appears in publications published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Journey into Mystery #83 and was created by editor-plotter Stan Lee, scripter Larry Lieber, and penciller Jack Kirby....
. - Militant - HYDRA's version of Captain AmericaCaptain AmericaCaptain America is a fictional character, a superhero that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Captain America Comics #1 , from Marvel Comics' 1940s predecessor, Timely Comics, and was created by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby...
. - Tactical Force - HYDRA's version of Iron ManIron ManIron Man is a fictional character, a superhero in the . The character was created by writer-editor Stan Lee, developed by scripter Larry Lieber, and designed by artists Don Heck and Jack Kirby, first appearing in Tales of Suspense #39 .A billionaire playboy, industrialist and ingenious engineer,...
.
- Bowman - HYDRA's version of Hawkeye
Ultimate Marvel
At the time when Spider-ManSpider-Man
Spider-Man is a fictional Marvel Comics superhero. The character was created by writer-editor Stan Lee and writer-artist Steve Ditko. He first appeared in Amazing Fantasy #15...
was presumed dead following the events of Ultimatum, J. Jonah Jameson
J. Jonah Jameson
John Jonah Jameson Junior is a supporting character of Spider-Man in the .Jameson is usually the publisher or editor-in-chief of the Daily Bugle, a fictional New York newspaper and now serves as the mayor of New York City...
recalled the time when Spider-Man saved Tony Stark from an attack by HYDRA.
Exiles
Another alternate version of HYDRA appears throughout ExilesExiles (Marvel Comics)
The Exiles are a group of fictional characters that feature in three Marvel Comics series, Exiles, New Exiles, and Exiles vol. 2. The Exiles consists of characters from different dimensions, or realities, which have been removed from time and space in order to correct problems in various alternate...
#91-94, where they are well underway with their plan to take over the world. This version is being led by Madame Hydra (Sue Storm, the Invisible Woman
Invisible Woman
Susan "Sue" Storm Richards is a fictional character, a Marvel Comics superheroine created by writer Stan Lee and artist/co-writer Jack Kirby. The character first appeared in Fantastic Four #1 in November 1961, and was the first female superhero created by Marvel in the Silver Age of Comics...
in the regular Marvel universe) and her lover, Wolverine. Various other superhumans, including Captain America (now Captain Hydra), Iron Man and Slaymaster
Slaymaster
Slaymaster is a fictional comic book character from Marvel Comics's Captain Britain series.-Publication history:The Slaymaster's first appearance was in Super Spider-Man and Captain Britain #243 , a weekly Marvel UK title which featured a mix of reprint and original material.He was created by Jim...
, are agents of HYDRA in this world. One of the Exiles' foe, the original character Venger
Venger
Venger is a branded film series directed by Marc Furmie. It is seen as a possible re-invention of the BMW film series The Hire. Production on the 15-minute movie began in July of 2010 when executive producer Jesse Press arranged a commercial deal with Sydney based Mercedes-Benz dealership G Brothers...
later becomes an agent of HYDRA, as well as Boy-Bob Banner
Hulk (comics)
The Hulk is a fictional character, a superhero in the . Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, the character first appeared in The Incredible Hulk #1 ....
.
Amalgam Comics
Another version of HYDRA has appeared in Amalgam ComicsAmalgam Comics
Amalgam Comics was a publishing imprint shared by DC Comics and Marvel Comics, in which the two comic book publishers merged their characters into new ones . These characters first appeared in a series of twelve comic books which were published in 1996, between issues 3 and 4 of the Marvel vs...
. They are very similar to the normal HYDRA and wear the same green and yellow outfits, but with black eyes not red. They first appear in Super-Soldier #1 and are led by Lex Luthor (later known as Green Skull).
Television
- In The Incredible HulkThe Incredible Hulk (1982 animated TV series)The Incredible Hulk is an animated television series based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name. The series ran for 13 episodes on NBC in 1982, part of a combined hour with Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends...
episode "Enter: She-Hulk", HulkHulk (comics)The Hulk is a fictional character, a superhero in the . Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, the character first appeared in The Incredible Hulk #1 ....
and She-HulkShe-HulkShe-Hulk is a Marvel Comics superheroine. Created by writer Stan Lee and artist John Buscema, she first appeared in Savage She-Hulk #1 ....
battle HYDRA's forces. The Supreme Hydra featured was Steve Perry. - HYDRA appeared in the X-Men: EvolutionX-Men: EvolutionX-Men: Evolution is an American animated television series about the Marvel Comics superhero team the X-Men. In this incarnation many of the characters are teenagers rather than adults...
episodes "X-23X-23X-23 is a fictional comic book superheroine appearing in books published by Marvel Comics, in particular those featuring the X-Men. X-23 is a female clone of Wolverine.-Publication history:...
" and "Target X". They were behind the creation of X-23X-23X-23 is a fictional comic book superheroine appearing in books published by Marvel Comics, in particular those featuring the X-Men. X-23 is a female clone of Wolverine.-Publication history:...
from WolverineWolverine (comics)Wolverine is a fictional character, a superhero that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. Born as James Howlett and commonly known as Logan, Wolverine is a mutant, possessing animal-keen senses, enhanced physical capabilities, three retracting bone claws on each hand and a healing...
's DNA. Viper appears to be the Supreme Hydra, and Omega RedOmega RedOmega Red is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in X-Men #4 , and was created by Jim Lee...
and GauntletGauntlet (Inhuman)Gauntlet is a fictional supervillain in the Marvel Comics universe. He is a member of the Dark Riders, employed by Apocalypse, and is one of the Inhumans. He is fitted with a cybernetic gauntlet, high powered weapons, and wears a mechanical device over one eye, used for tracking and scoping out prey...
are shown as mercenaries working for HYDRA. It's implied that they may have had something to do with Wolverine's creation and memory wipe. - HYDRA appears as a recurring foe in The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest HeroesThe Avengers: Earth's Mightiest HeroesThe Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes is an American animated television series by Marvel Animation in cooperation with Film Roman based on the Marvel Comics superhero team the Avengers. The show debuted on Disney XD in Fall 2010 starting with a 20 part micro-series. A second season has been...
. It was revealed in the episode "Meet Captain America" that they were part of the Axis Powers, overrunning Europe in the Second World War with Baron Heinrich ZemoBaron ZemoBaron Zemo is the name of two fictional characters, both supervillains, in various Marvel Comics comic books, notably Captain America and the Avengers...
as their leader and the Red SkullRed SkullThe Red Skull is a name shared by several fictional characters, all supervillains from the Marvel Comics universe. All incarnations of the character are enemies of Captain America, other superheroes, and the United States in general....
as their super-soldier (they appeared to be a stand-inStand-inA stand-in for film and television is a person who substitutes for the actor before filming, for technical purposes such as lighting.Stand-ins are helpful in the initial processes of production. Lighting setup can be a slow and tedious process; during this time the actor will often be somewhere else...
for Nazi Germany, but Christopher Yost would later clarify they were a branch of the Nazi regime). The episode shows that one of HYDRA's attempts to win the war involved taking mythological beasts from the realms of Norse mythology and using technology to enslave them, in an attempt thwarted by Captain America and Bucky. In modern times as seen in the episode "Iron Man is Born," they were known to steal some of Stark Industries technology to bolster their plans for world domination. During that episode, HYDRA agents attack the United Nations and fight Iron Man, who says they have been trying to conquer Earth ever since the end of the War. HYDRA unleashes some Dreadnoughts to fight Iron Man. Iron Man defeats the last Dreadnought when S.H.I.E.L.D. arrives. After Iron Man leaves, the S.H.I.E.L.D. agents arrest the HYDRA agents involved in the attack. The HYDRA agents are dropped off at the Vault where Nick Fury goes to interrogate Baron Strucker. During that time, it is shown that one of the HYDRA agents was actually Grim Reaper in disguise as part of a plot to spring Baron Strucker from prison. Both of them are defeated by Nick Fury and Baron Strucker is placed back in his cell while Grim Reaper is also locked into a cell of his own. In the episode "Hulk vs the World," it is revealed that Black Widow is a double-agent working for HYDRA when she steals Hulk's DNA. In the two-part episode "The Breakout," Baron Strucker and Grim Reaper are among the prisoners that escape from the Vault as they make their way back to HYDRA Island. Their latest appearance was in the episode "Living Legend", where Zemo finds Strucker ruling HYDRA, then lets him keep it, seemingly severing ties with the organization. In the episode "Panther's Prey," Grim Reaper and HYDRA managed to pick up some Vibranium from Man-Ape and Klaw. In the episode "Widow's Sting," Grim Reaper and HYDRA meet with MODOK and A.I.M. for a transaction that would help in the creation of the Cosmic Cube which is crashed by Hawkeye in his search for Black Widow. Grim Reaper manages to escape (not knowing that Hawkeye had placed a tracer on him) while the defeated HYDRA and A.I.M. agents were arrested by S.H.I.E.L.D. When Hawkeye, Mockingbird, Captain America, and Black Panther trace Grim Reaper to HYDRA Island, they end up fighting the forces of HYDRA. Baron Strucker ended up having the computer activate the self-destruct sequence upon telling it "Codename: Fenris." Though Hawkeye goes after Black Widow and Baron Strucker. Hawkeye is taken down by Black Widow who secretly attacks Baron Strucker as he tries to take Hawkeye's youth. Black Widow escapes from HYDRA Island with Baron Strucker while Grim Reaper, Madame Hydra (who was later revealed to be a Skrull), and the remaining HYDRA Agents present are arrested by S.H.I.E.L.D. While waiting for MODOK, Black Widow tells Baron Strucker that Black Panther attacked him from behind. MODOK arrives and tells Baron Strucker that the Cosmic Cube experiment was a failure and gives back the money. After MODOK left, Baron Strucker suspects that MODOK was lying about the Cosmic Cube experiment being a failure. In the episode "Hail, Hydra", AIM and HYDRA tear the city apart for control of the Cosmic Cube, forcing the Avengers to intervene. It is revealed that the Black Widow was ordered by Nick Fury to infiltrate HYDRA to learn the nature of the Cube. In the end, the Avengers prevailed when both Baron Strucker and Captain America touched the Cosmic Cube and it appeared as if nothing happened. Both AIM and HYDRA were finally taken down for good. - HYDRA appears in The Super Hero Squad ShowThe Super Hero Squad ShowThe Super Hero Squad Show is an American cartoon series by Marvel Animation. It is based on the Marvel Super Hero Squad action figure line from Hasbro, which portray the characters of the Marvel Universe in a cartoonish super-deformed-style...
episode "Brouhaha at the World's Bottom." Baron Strucker leads the HYDRA forces into attacking a S.H.I.E.L.D. Base in Antarctica.
Film
- HYDRA also appears in the television movieTelevision movieA television film is a feature film that is a television program produced for and originally distributed by a television network, in contrast to...
Nick Fury: Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D., with black Men in BlackMen in Black (comic book)The Men in Black was a comic book created and written by Lowell Cunningham, illustrated by Sandy Carruthers, and published by Aircel Comics. Aircel would later be bought out by Malibu Comics, which itself was bought out by Marvel Comics. Three issues were published in 1990, with another three the...
-type suits, rather than the green uniform from the comics. - Some HYDRA agents appear at the beginning of the animated movie Ultimate Avengers 2Ultimate Avengers 2Ultimate Avengers 2 is the sequel to Ultimate Avengers. The film was released on August 8, 2006...
fighting against Captain AmericaCaptain AmericaCaptain America is a fictional character, a superhero that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Captain America Comics #1 , from Marvel Comics' 1940s predecessor, Timely Comics, and was created by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby...
. After Cap defeats most of the agents, two of them try to escape in a van. Cap throws his shield, which slices clean through the van back-to-front, and causing it to skid out of control. The van crashes into a tank of some sort of chemicals, which then burst open, showering the van. The van melts along with both HYDRA agents. - HYDRA appears in the 2011 film adaptation of Captain America: The First AvengerCaptain America: The First AvengerCaptain America: The First Avenger is a 2011 American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics character Captain America. It is the fifth installment of the Marvel Cinematic Universe...
. The group is depicted as a renegade military organization led by Red SkullRed SkullThe Red Skull is a name shared by several fictional characters, all supervillains from the Marvel Comics universe. All incarnations of the character are enemies of Captain America, other superheroes, and the United States in general....
, who is obsessed with harnessing magical artifacts in his bid to take over the world. Additionally, HYDRA is portrayed as the advanced science branch for the Third Reich, utilizing several experimental aircraft such as the Focke-Wulf Triebflügel VTOLVTOLA vertical take-off and landing aircraft is one that can hover, take off and land vertically. This classification includes fixed-wing aircraft as well as helicopters and other aircraft with powered rotors, such as cyclogyros/cyclocopters and tiltrotors...
aircraft and a huge intercontinental flying-wing bomber based in part on the Horten Ho 229Horten Ho 229The Horten H.IX, RLM designation Ho 229 was a late–World War II prototype fighter/bomber designed by Reimar and Walter Horten and built by Gothaer Waggonfabrik...
design. During the course of the film, the organization goes rogue from the German forces and is armed with heavily advanced technology powered by the mythical TesseractCosmic CubeThe Cosmic Cube, called the Tesseract in the film Captain America: The First Avenger, is the name of a fictional object that appears in the Marvel Universe. The concept was created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby and first appeared in Tales of Suspense #79 .-Publication history:The first Cosmic Cube...
(hinted to be Asgardian in origin). Ultimately Red Skull is seemingly killed in a fight with Captain America and HYDRA appears to be defeated by American forces.
Video games
- HYDRA also appears in X-Men: The Official GameX-Men: The Official GameX-Men: The Official Game is Activision's tie-in video game to the 2006 film X-Men: The Last Stand. The game covers the events of the films X2: X-Men United and X-Men: The Last Stand, specifically following the characters of Wolverine, Iceman, and Nightcrawler...
. In the game, HYDRA is partially responsible for the creation of the Master MoldMaster MoldMaster Mold is a fictional character, a robot supervillain in the Marvel Universe. Since his primary purpose was to act as a portable Sentinel-creating factory, and the Sentinel robots were primarily used to hunt mutants, Master Mold has almost exclusively appeared in the X-Men and related,...
and SentinelSentinel (comics)Sentinels are a fictional variety of mutant-hunting robots, appearing in the Marvel Comics Universe. They are usually portrayed as antagonists to the X-Men. Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, they first appeared in The X-Men #14 .According to Marvel canon, Sentinels are programmed to locate...
robots alongside William StrykerWilliam StrykerCol. William "Bill" Stryker, M.D. is a fictional comic book supervillain in the Marvel Comics universe, and enemy of the X-Men. Created by writer Chris Claremont and artist Brent Anderson, he first appeared in the 1982 graphic novel X-Men: God Loves, Man Kills.Rev...
. Under orders of their leader, Silver SamuraiSilver SamuraiThe Silver Samurai is a fictional character in Marvel Comics' universe, occasionally a superhero and more often a supervillain. His first appearance was in Daredevil #111...
, HYDRA infiltrates Stryker's base to remove all evidence and Sentinel equipment, and by accident, activated the Master Mold. - HYDRA is the major villain in the rare Sega 32XSega 32XThe Sega 32X, codenamed Project Mars, is an add-on for the Mega Drive/Genesis video game console by Sega. Its aim was to increase the lifespan of the aging Mega Drive/Genesis system, which was facing stiff competition from the SNES...
video game titled Spider-Man: Web of FireSpider-Man: Web of FireSpider-Man: Web of Fire is a video game released for the Sega 32X and based on the popular Marvel Comics character Spider-Man. The game was one of the last games released for the 32X system and thus is hard to find, commonly selling on eBay for well over 100 US dollars.In the game, the player...
. - In Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2, one of the levels includes an old HYDRA base that the Anti-Registration group was using.
- HYDRA's aerial base can be seen attacking the S.H.I.E.L.D. Helicarrier in the latter's stage in Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two WorldsMarvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worldsis a crossover fighting game developed by Capcom. It features Capcom's own characters and characters from American comic book company Marvel Comics. It is the fifth installment of the Marvel vs...
. The organization's logo can also be seen on the car that attempts to run She-HulkShe-HulkShe-Hulk is a Marvel Comics superheroine. Created by writer Stan Lee and artist John Buscema, she first appeared in Savage She-Hulk #1 ....
down in one of her special moves. - HYDRA appears as the central antagonists in the video game Captain America: Super SoldierCaptain America: Super SoldierCaptain America: Super Soldier is a third person single player video game loosely based on the film Captain America: The First Avenger...
.
Miscellaneous
- HYDRA makes an appearance in the second issue of the comic book based on the animated television series The Avengers.