To answer BEagles question, Arresting Systems on Carriers can be set for specific aircraft types and weight. The RHAG was not adjustable so a much lighter aircraft than the Phantom may feel a bit harsher on the Pilot and in some aircraft, the F5 for example approach end engagements were not permitted. The BAK 12 Arresting System is adjustable but it would generally take an hour to adjust it which is of course not acceptable so it is generally set for the heaviest aircraft. The first couple of Typhoons arrested here were quite fast and the Pilots certainly fealt it. There are some new systems on trial at the moment that will sense the force and apply the appropriate brake pressure to smoothly stop the aircraft.