MD-11
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
ATC Issue All Types; Inflight Event / Encounter Wake Vortex Encounter
General None Reported / Taken
Environment - Non Weather Related; Procedure
We had departed Rwy 18R normally behind a B777. At approximately 1;700 ft MSL we experienced moderate [to] heavy jet wake turbulence for 10-15 sec with 20+ degree bank angle changes left and right and 3-5 degree pitch changes. ATC advised the B777 was 4 miles ahead after we reported the wake encounter to them. The TRACON indicated they would file a report and suggested we file an ASAP report as well.The ReCat Wake turbulence separation program combined with a light right crosswind conditions.Return to standard wake turbulence separation standards for heavy aircraft.
MD-11 Captain reported wake turbulence encounter departing MEM four miles in trail of a B777.