What is the primary advantage of using flares in combat?

The primary advantage of using flares in combat is to confuse radar-guided systems. Flares are designed to produce a bright light and a significant infrared signature that can mislead enemy targeting systems. When deployed, these flares create a heat source that can attract missiles and other targeting mechanisms that are infrared-guided, diverting them away from the actual aircraft. This ability to disrupt the targeting process enhances the aircraft's survivability during combat scenarios, making it a crucial countermeasure against sophisticated missile threats.

In contrast, while creating a larger target might increase visibility, it does not serve a tactical advantage in the same manner as misleading an enemy's guidance systems. The other options, such as radiolocation or reducing weight, do not apply directly to the primary purpose of flares in combat situations and do not reflect the defensive strategy that flares are primarily designed to implement.