What are explosive squibs primarily used for in aviation systems?

Explosive squibs serve a critical function in aviation systems, especially regarding safety mechanisms such as ejection seats in aircraft. They are small explosive devices that can rapidly generate a force to initiate a specific sequence. In the context of ejection seats, the squib is responsible for firing a charge that propels the seat out of the aircraft during an emergency, allowing the pilot to escape quickly and safely.

This functionality is essential in military aircraft where pilots need to evacuate swiftly under life-threatening conditions. The precise nature of squibs ensures that they can be triggered reliably in emergencies, making them valuable safety devices in aviation.

Other options may seem similar but do not align with the primary use of explosive squibs in aviation systems. For instance, while squibs are not typically used to unlock doors or provide thrust directly, they are integral in systems where quick and reliable activation of a process is critical for safety and emergency response.