Tailstrikes do not only occur in the VMU test. They can also occur in the TOP test (take-off performance test, which determines the basic data for calculating the take-off performance of an aircraft). For this reason, devices such as those shown in the video at 2:46 are installedat the tail so that the fuselage is not damaged too much.

G’day that was interesting and it bought back memories, when I was in the Air Force Cades many moons ago we saw a mirage model go through a wind tunnels. We couldn’t believe how detailed the model was. Take care John

With the rejected take off test the ARFF can approach the aircraft but can not apply any material for a period of time to account for real world response times. ARFF is usually on the airport grounds, especially for anywhere receiving a 747, but they are not usually sitting at the side of the runway unless an emergency is declared prior to arrival.

Its not cruel testing. Its called stress ,performance and safety. It how they establish the limitations of the aircraft for the pilots so they don't exceed them Secondly, it establishes the maintenance requirements so the airlines know what how long parts will last The USAF lost AC-130J brand new from because the aircraft went inverted during testing for a few seconds. It recovered and landed safety however per the maintenance manual had to be written off as it exceeded the safety thresholds Hence why this testing is important