The hook must be a fairly standard procedure for emergency landings where fitted. The F-111G isn't a naval aircraft yet it still has a hook. Back when we operated Phantom II's hooks were used used during emergency landings and most of our big RAAF bases have arrestor cable systems.
I guess that using it is to stop the plane in the shortest amount of time. Ejection from an F-111 is to be avoided if possible. From memory it almost always causes back injuries to the pilot and navigator.
Anyway they are the experts so they should know what they're doing!
Cheers
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