VORTAC

An arrangement in which VOR (very high frequency omnidirectional radio range) and TACAN (tactical air navigation) beacons are co-located. It provides at all times three individual services: VOR azimuth, TACAN azimuth, and TACAN distance. Transmitted signals of VOR and TACAN are each identified by a three-letter code transmission and are interlocked, so that pilots using a VOR azimuth with a TACAN distance can be assured that both signals being received are definitely from the same ground station. The frequency channels of the VOR and the TACAN at each VORTAC facility are “paired” in accordance with a national plan to simplify airborne operations. VORTAC is shown on the aeronautical charts by the symbol

Range measurement by airborne TACAN.