Why Major Powers Do Not Need a Standing A-29 Fleet

Why do major powers not field more aircraft such as the A-29 Super Tucano for rapid, low-intensity support?

They can buy or build light aircraft when needed, adapt trainers for some missions, and increasingly assign low-risk support work to UAVs.

A major power does not need to maintain a dedicated production line when it can buy suitable aircraft from another country or establish production if demand becomes urgent. For low-intensity support missions, unmanned aircraft increasingly offer a way to reduce risk to aircrew. A jet trainer such as the BAE Hawk can also be adapted for some light-attack work, although a turboprop may suit a different flight regime. The absence of a large standing A-29 fleet is a procurement and mission-allocation choice rather than proof that the capability has no value.