I find the whole pay issue particularly distasteful and dominated by politics rather than a fair recognition of what the Armed Forces as an entirity are worth.
When times are good and the private sector is coining it in and pocketing their bonuses, we can't get a significant pay rise as it might lead to unacceptable inflationary pressures. I think 6 figure bonuses and 'fat cat' pay might be more of an issue than 5% for a group of people earning in a year what many fat cats earn in a week.
When times are bad and the private sector are reaping the fruits of their efforts and bonuses are down or out, we must now share in their pain as to do otherwise would be politically unacceptable.
Anybody else see a degree of inequality here? Politicians. Can't live with them, can't shoot them.