The adaptive brake application and initial skid detection system allows rapid brake application and prevents deep initial skids. Brake pressure is compared with a predetermined threshold brake pressure. Wheel velocity error signals are also generated to indicated the difference between the wheel velocity and a reference velocity signal. A pressure bias modulator integrator responsive to brake pressure signals adjusts the wheel velocity error signals to provide an anti-skid control signal. The pressure bias modulator integrator can also be initialized to the value of the measured brake pressure when the wheel velocity error signals indicate the beginning of a skid. Brake pressure difference signals are generated to indicate the difference between brake pressure and a commanded brake pressure, and an adjusted brake pressure error signal is generated in response to the brake pressure difference signals.