Chug,
you have highlighted the fact that the chain of command in has been found wanting and therefore is not working for the sailor/soldier/airman on the ground.
It has only been by the publicity of cases (highlighted not through the chain of command) in the media about equipment shortages that has forced the system to react. Whilst some might disagree, I personally have seem a massive improvement in the quality and quanitity of kit I have been issued since 2003 Gulf War. This is one role that a federation could fulfil.
Also who gives advice to personnel who wish to seek redress / legal action outside of the QR system? At the moment I would be confused who could provide that. I could consult a lawyer, but which one is good at dealing with such specialist cases. I have no doubt if I needed to find out I could, but I wager there are many thousands out there who would struggle financially or otherwise.
I think there are advantages and disadvantages to both ways (i.e. with and without a federation), but on balance my money is on with.
GB2