I fully agree with Radiohead.
As for equality (not only in the forces but in all spheres of life), it is something that we, as a society, should strive for.
However, equality only works when hiring/promotion, etc is based on accepted standards or practices, skills, and so on.
I contend that all government services should be reflective of the overall population. This does not mean quotas, but rather this means attracting and encouraging QUALIFIED people from non-traditional areas (i.e. women, people of colour, etc) to join. And, by qualified, I mean that they pass all of the standards.
As for women in the combat arms, I am positive that there are women who are tough enough and strong enough to hack it. Historically, you do see women in combat roles. For example, there were women gladiators in Rome. And, in the modern world, you see women playing key roles in terrorist organizations. What about women in the resistance in WWII? Women do not have to relegated to support roles, they are capable.
Think about this -- there was a time, and not too long ago, when blacks were not allowed to join the armed forces because society thought that they couldn‘t handle the pressure or even march. Eventually, blacks were allowed into the military, but they were restricted to minor roles because society thought that they weren‘t smart enough to do anything demanding or become ncos or officers. Then blacks were restricted to black-only companies. Eventually, there was full integration.
By restricting women to certain roles or jobs, are we not doing the same thing our ancestors did to blacks a mere 100 years ago?