The present subject matter can be embodied in, among other things, a two-speed thrust reverser actuation system for actuating a thrust reverser element experiencing an assisting load during movement between a stowed and deployed positions. The system includes a hydraulic actuator to move the thrust reverser element between the stowed and deployed positions, and a directional control valve with a regeneration feature including a restrictor and a velocity fuse arranged in parallel with the restrictor. The velocity fuse is configured to close when the assisting load on the thrust reverser element increases the flow rate of hydraulic fluid through the velocity fuse above threshold value. In operation, the system defines a first movement speed when the velocity fuse is open, and a second movement speed when the velocity fuse is closed, thereby decreasing an effective exit orifice size of the hydraulic actuator when the assisting load increases the deploy rate.