What element provides slant-range distance to the station in a TACAN setup?

In a TACAN (Tactical Air Navigation) setup, the element that provides slant-range distance to the station is referred to as TACAN ID. This identification system works by allowing aircraft to determine their distance from a TACAN ground station, which can be crucial for navigation, especially in military contexts.

TACAN operates using a series of signals transmitted by the ground station. These signals give the aircraft not only the directional information but also the actual slant-range distance. The TACAN ID is a unique identifier for each TACAN station, allowing pilots to ascertain that they are receiving data from the correct source. This system enables pilots to calculate their position accurately based on the slant-range information it conveys, which is essential for approaching and landing safely at an airfield.