What can result if anti-tear strips are not used on aircraft with high speeds?

The use of anti-tear strips is crucial in aircraft construction, especially for those operating at high speeds, because they significantly reinforce the integrity of the fabric covering on the aircraft. If anti-tear strips are not employed, the risk of fabric failure increases due to the higher pressures and loads experienced at high speeds. Without these strips, the fabric is more susceptible to tearing and other forms of damage, potentially leading to catastrophic structural failures during flight.

While the other options may relate to aircraft performance and efficiency, they do not directly address the specific concern of fabric integrity and the associated risks that come from operating without anti-tear strips. Increased risk of fabric failure is the most primary and critical outcome of neglecting this important safety feature.