Speaking to CP24, Roshel founder Roman Shimonov detailed the firm’s efforts to meet the growing demand for military-grade vehicles, revealing that Roshel has delivered over 1,700 units to Ukraine—more than any other manufacturer globally.
The Brampton, Ontario-based company has significantly expanded its workforce, now employing nearly 500 full-time staff. Shimonov emphasized that all vehicles are designed and built in Canada, highlighting the company’s role in strengthening domestic defense production while supporting Ukraine’s war effort.
“This is the backbone of the economy,” Shimonov said, underscoring the importance of a self-reliant defense sector.
Despite the large-scale production and proven battlefield performance of Roshel’s vehicles, Shimonov noted that the majority of units sent to Ukraine were funded by international allies rather than the Canadian government.
“Over 90% of these vehicles were donated by the U.S., European governments, and Ukraine itself,” he stated. While Canada has previously purchased Roshel vehicles, Shimonov expressed a desire for more domestic procurement, especially given increasing pressure on Ottawa to boost NATO defense spending.
Shimonov argued that investing in locally manufactured defense equipment benefits both national security and the economy. “Each of these vehicles costs around $600,000, but the investment goes back into the economy, supporting Canadian workers and innovation,” he said.
Roshel’s Senator MRAP armored vehicles are designed for multipurpose battlefield roles, including troop transport, cargo delivery, and drone integration. The vehicles can carry up to 11 personnel, including a gunner, and withstand significant explosive impacts. “This vehicle can take up to 25 kilograms of TNT from two meters,” Shimonov explained, comparing its resilience to multimillion-dollar alternatives. “Cost efficiency is the key here.”
The growing role of inexpensive, lethal FPV drones in modern warfare has reshaped battlefield tactics. Shimonov noted that a relatively cheap drone can destroy even high-cost armored vehicles, making cost-effective protection and adaptability essential. Roshel’s design and production model allows for rapid deployment, with the company producing over 120 units per month—more than any other manufacturer in North America. “Our turnaround time is the shortest in the industry—up to two weeks per vehicle,” he added.
Shimonov stressed the importance of supporting domestic defense manufacturers, particularly as Canada faces increasing geopolitical and military obligations. “We need to be able to rely on ourselves more than ever,” he said. “Now is the time to enhance our defense capabilities and sustain our own employment rate.”
With Ukraine’s ongoing demand for military equipment and Canada’s commitments to NATO, Roshel remains at the forefront of the defense industry, offering high-quality, battle-tested vehicles at a fraction of the cost of traditional armored platforms.
As pressure mounts for Ottawa to increase defense spending, companies like Roshel could play a crucial role in meeting both domestic and international security needs.
