What is a VORTAC best described as?

A VORTAC is best described as a combination of a VOR (VHF Omni-directional Range) and TACAN (Tactical Air Navigation). The VOR component provides navigation information based on radio signals to help pilots determine their position and track their course, while the TACAN system, primarily utilized by military aircraft, offers distance measuring capabilities in addition to the directional information provided by the VOR. This dual functionality makes VORTAC valuable for both civil and military aviation, enhancing situational awareness and navigation accuracy.

This option represents the integration of these two systems, providing comprehensive navigation services that leverage the strengths of both VOR and TACAN. The other choices do not accurately reflect the nature of a VORTAC. For instance, a combination of a VOR and an NDB (Non-Directional Beacon) does not include the distance measuring capabilities of TACAN, and a standalone VOR system does not provide the added benefits of TAACN's military navigation capabilities.