Yes the present system does put all servicemen on a level playing field financially. Then again why should it? The last year for which stats were available showed that less than half the RAF spent more than 3 weeks away. As for the tax-free system benefitting the highest ranks, the US system allows for that by capping the amount of salary that is tax free thereby preventing the best paid being better off. Although we did not join for the money it is the effect on morale of working next to Americans who are getting so much better treatment that is the problem.