What often allows moisture and other fluids to enter through the bilge area of military aircraft?

The ability of moisture and other fluids to enter through the bilge area of military aircraft is frequently associated with cables and wire bundles. This is because these bundles can create openings or gaps where water or other fluids may accumulate. The design of military aircraft typically includes various pathways for routing electrical systems, and these pathways can inadvertently allow moisture to collect.

Furthermore, the bilge area, which is designed to collect any fluids that may leak, can become susceptible to intrusion from the external environment through these openings. Ensuring the integrity of these cable bundles is crucial to prevent corrosion and water accumulation, which can lead to electrical failures or other malfunctions in avionics systems.

In contrast, airframe joints, engine components, and fuel lines can also contribute to fluid ingress, but cables and wire bundles are more directly connected to the electronic systems that are particularly sensitive to moisture, making them a primary concern in corrosion control.