Small insects and animals can enter packaged equipment and cause which of the following?

The reasoning behind choosing system failures as the correct answer lies in the significant impact that small insects and animals can have on the functionality of packaged equipment. When these organisms gain access, they can interfere with sensitive electronic components, create short circuits, block airflow, or even lead to circuit corrosion. These interferences can ultimately disrupt the normal operation of the equipment, leading to system failures that may compromise the overall performance of avionics systems.

While cosmetic damage, warranty claims, and inventory loss are potential issues associated with pest invasion, the primary concern in the context of avionics is the potential for operational failure. The equipment must be kept in optimal condition for safety and performance, and any biological interference poses a direct threat to that integrity. Therefore, focusing on system failures underscores the critical importance of safeguarding electronic systems from such intrusions to maintain their operational reliability.