ARXW, I assume that you refer to the pilots notes for the Lightning; which mark?
Also, could you check the 300kts figure; this is surprising as I recall test firings from at least 480kts.
Also, IIRC all restrictions of firing with the probe fitted were cancelled.
Spot on. Mk.6 pilots notes.
In terms of speed limitations I imagine, as with anything, in the notes that these are highly recommended figures
I presume test firings would have been taking place at much more "heart-of-the-envelope" conditions. Speed limitation are stated in a slightly more complicated manner. Will check again later for the precise statement.
One thing I do remember (unfortunately I lost the reply! ), from the late Brian Carroll, is that the RT could indeed be launched very successfully head on and indeed he'd shot at least one under these conditions. therefore, the RT was indeed in one way at least, more than a decade ahead of its time (if not 15 years)!