The word "Shandelle" is spelled with a combination of consonants and vowels. The initial "sh" sound is represented by the letters "sh" in English orthography, followed by the "an" sound represented by the letters "an". The "d" and "e" sounds in the middle are represented by their respective letters, and the final "lle" sound is represented by the letters "elle". In IPA phonetic transcription, the word would be transcribed as /ʃændɛl/.
Shandelle is a term primarily used in the field of aviation to refer to a specific maneuver performed by an aircraft during takeoff or landing. More specifically, it is a type of tactical aerobatic maneuver executed by military aircraft in order to avoid or confuse enemy air defense systems.
During a shandelle maneuver, the aircraft makes a steep climbing turn while simultaneously rolling up to 180 degrees, followed by a steep diving descent on a reciprocal heading. This complex aerial maneuver allows the aircraft to change its direction and altitude quickly and unpredictably, making it a highly effective evasive tactic. By executing a shandelle, the pilot can throw off the aim of enemy missiles or radar systems, making it harder for potential threats to accurately track the aircraft.
The term "shandelle" originates from the French word "chandelle," meaning "candle." The name alludes to the shape traced by the aircraft's flight path, resembling the curling, flickering motion of a candle flame. Due to its significant tactical advantages, the shandelle maneuver has become an essential part of military aviation and plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and success of aircraft operations in potentially hostile environments.