Principally the fiscal and career costs of going abroad means that many just won't take the risk. As mentioned, in many locations spouses can't work, schooling is an issue (howsoever arranged - local schools, BFS, Boarding, DoDEA), quality of housing is very variable (although generally DIO do try), bonkers rules on allowances, BFPO...I could go on. But ultimately it falls in to the 'too difficult' tray for many.
I've been on a number of really interesting and wacky overseas posts but my career has stood still (happy with that) and the overall value of the package to make up for all the minor troubles has massively eroded (not happy with that). This is compounded by a generation of personnel across the RAF and the MOD with no experience of serving abroad apart from the perception that it's a doddle, involving a constant round of cocktail parties and little work...
Time to get the mess kit ready. Another do to go to...
