The OMNIPOL Group and ROSHEL Launch a New Era

At the IDET 2025 trade fair in Brno, a strategic agreement was ceremonially signed today between the Czech OMNIPOL Group and the Canadian company Roshel, a global leader in wheeled armored vehicles. This extraordinary cooperation has resulted in the formation of a joint venture, Roshel CZ, and the launch of localised production in the Czech Republic of the Senator vehicle line, including the MRAP, APC, and medical evacuation variants.

In the presence of the President of the Czech Republic, members of the government, and other distinguished guests, the Agreement confirming the launch of this joint venture was officially signed on the 28th May 2025. This represents a major strategic step not only for the OMNIPOL Group but also for the entire Czech defense industry.

"Our goal is not just production. It’s a new direction – strengthening the domestic defense industry, boosting employment, and making full use of Czech manufacturing expertise. We see this cooperation not merely as a technical partnership but as a key step in our long-term strategic development," said Jiří Podpěra, President of the OMNIPOL Group.

Why Roshel? A Common Bond of Trust, Values, and Innovation

Headquartered in Brampton, Canada, Roshel is a world-leading manufacturer of armored vehicles for both governmental and commercial use. Its flagship product, the SENATOR MRAP, has proven itself in combat conditions. In total, more than 1,800 Senator MRAPs and APCs are currently deployed in Ukraine.

The cooperation with the OMNIPOL Group stems naturally from our shared values and a mutual focus on innovation, reliability, and cutting-edge technologies. The newly established Roshel CZ will be responsible for localised production with maximum involvement of Czech industry – especially companies from the automotive sector and OMNIPOL’s existing capabilities. This collaboration was guided by a clear strategic objective—to establish localized production in the Czech Republic while offering a combat-proven, technologically advanced vehicle with strong appeal to both domestic and international markets. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to strengthen European industrial capabilities and enhance defense export competitiveness.

"We see our partnership with the OMNIPOL Group as a key milestone in our global growth strategy. The Czech Republic has a well-established tradition in both the defense and automotive sectors, making it a natural choice for expanding the production of the Senator vehicle line. Our aim is to build a lasting presence that contributes to the local economy, enhances the regional defense industry, and strengthens supply capabilities across the European market," said Roman Shimonov, CEO of ROSHEL.

SENATOR MRAP: Combat-Proven, Czech-Made

The robust SENATOR MRAP (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected) platform is recognised as being among the most respected vehicles of its kind for its durability, mobility, and modularity. Its V-hull design provides high protection against mines and explosions. The vehicle is fully certified according to STANAG 4569 – Level 2 (ballistic) and Levels 3a/2b/2c (blast protection).

The Senator is ready for a wide range of missions – from military operations to border patrol and humanitarian deployments. Production in the Czech Republic will be tailored to meet specific requirements of customers from NATO member states and other countries, with the main focus on export markets.

"It’s a so-called 'soldier-proven solution' – technology tested directly in combat, with an emphasis on crew safety, adaptability, and ease of maintenance," added Jiří Podpěra, President of the OMNIPOL Group.

Technical Specifications of the SENATOR MRAP:

• Drive: 4×4, 6.7L Diesel V8 engine
  • Power: 330 HP / 1,288 Nm
  • Range: up to 800 km
  • Max speed: 120 km/h
  • Protection: STANAG 4569 Level 2 (ballistic), Level 3a/2b/2c (blast)
  • Crew capacity: 10 + 1
  • Weight: 8,958 kg
  • Optional equipment: night vision, weapon stations, CBRN system, CCTV, central tyre inflation system, etc.

Czech Involvement: MESIT and Local Partners

A key production partner will be the Czech company MESIT, a member of the OMNIPOL Group, whose tactical communication systems will enhance the vehicle’s deployment safety and efficiency. The project has strong potential to boost employment in the region and open new opportunities for Czech industry.

📆 Strategic partnership agreement signing ceremony:
28 May 2025, 11:00 AM – OMNIPOL stand, IDET Brno