Ken,
The shortest runway required for the C-17 is 3500 feet. Usually we are airborne at about 2/3 of the runway. Even with a load. Haven't had to do very many short T/O thank heaven. OIAX in Afghanistan has a short runway I have been in there twice and now scheduled to air drop a load there soon.
I have flown the Herc many times but never used the number 2&3 engines only short field take off. I now fly the C-17 Globemaster III. On short field T/O I use full flaps and hit the TOGA button and hold the brakes for about 30 or 40 seconds then let her go. I am airborne and climb out at 135KIAS. I have not had engine failures yet. Guess I am lucky.
