Why are the B-52 thrust levers advanced inside-out? As I understand, the standard procedure for advancing the throttle (for take-off) is as follows:


Advance throttle to desired engine input &amp; output (N1 &amp; N2)
Release brakes
Gradually increase the throttle to maximum
Throughout steps 1-3 either the pilot or the co-pilot control the throttle but not both


However, in this video of a B-52 we see a rather strange way of controlling the throttle. Starting at 0:44 the pilot and co-pilot take turns advancing the throttle in an inside-out manner. What is the reason behind this? Is there really a standard procedure for advancing throttle? Or does it vary based on the aircraft?
Note: Below is valid for applying takeoff thrust (part of the question), but it's now evident it wasn't the takeoff being shown in the video. Refer to OSUZorba's answer.



According to the video description, that B-52 belongs to the 2d Bomb Wing, which operates the B-52H variant.

According to the declassified B-52H manual, the pilot flying should advance all the levers "deliberately and evenly" to the thrust gate. The thrust gate is adjusted prior to takeoff, usually by the copilot, to limit the levers to the set takeoff power setting.

(15) Thrust gate

Initial reference to EPR (Engine Pressure Ratio) is not required. The pilot not flying then adjusts the proper EPR setting for each lever. So the standard procedure is close to what you have in mind.

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