PM
Cross Coupling: The mod is there and is not expensive - the kit I'm talking about is identical to the one you use. Maybe it's time this was pushed forward on Flight Safety grounds
Provision of service: I know where you mean, and what you're talking about. Do all those speaking units actually require a radar service - or is it imposed iaw Station Flying Order Book. If the latter then you have my sympathy as it's a farcicle state of affairs. Levels of service should be by agreement between individual pilot and controller contract - not by command level imposition.
I still think though that the time has come for the miilitary to maybe look at civil practice in certain circumstances - times do change after all.
CM