What does the brevity term HANDSHAKE indicate?

The brevity term HANDSHAKE is used specifically to indicate the status of the video datalink between the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and its ground control station. When this term is employed, it signifies that there is a successful and stable connection, allowing for the transmission of video feed. In UAV operations, maintaining a good video datalink is crucial for effective situational awareness and control of the aircraft, making HANDSHAKE an important term to confirm ongoing communication and data integrity.

Successful communication is vital in combat and surveillance scenarios, where operators depend on receiving real-time video to make informed decisions. The confirmation of a good video datalink supports these operational needs, ensuring that the operators have the information they require without interruptions. This understanding underscores the significance of the term HANDSHAKE in the context of UAV operations.