Originally Posted by
BEagle
For the F-4, I seem to recall it was something to do with a risk of stab jack stall?
The reason for the full aft stick technique in the F-4 was that it was the easiest way to attain the proper takeoff attitude and ensure the shortest takeoff roll.
From the F-4C/D/E - 1
NORMAL TAKEOFF
Sufficient aft stick should be applied prior to nose wheel liftoff speed to attain the desired pitch attitude. As the nose rises, pitch attitude must be controlled to maintain a 10 to 12 deg. pitch attitude nose high attitude for aircraft fly-off. Caution must be exercised to preclude over-rotation due to excessive aft stick rate or an extended takeoff roll due to late lift-off.
MINIMUM RUN/HEAVY GROSS WEIGHT TAKEOFF
A minimum run/heavy gross weight takeoff (aircarft over 50,000 pounds) is accomplished in the same manner as a normal takeoff with the following exceptions. It is recommended that all minimum run/heavy gross weight takeoffs be made with afterburner. During takeoff run, full aft stick must be applied prior to reaching 80 knots. As the aircraft starts to rotate, the stick should be adjusted to maintain 10 to 12 deg. pitch attitude for aircraft fly-off. The possibility of a main landing gear tire failure increases with extended takeoff ground run under heavy gross weight conditions.