Chile looks to buy Canadian-made armored vehicles
The Chilean Army is considering acquiring Senator 4×4 armored vehicles offered by Canadian manufacturer Roshel Inc.
According to the Infodefensa report, the proposal aims to enhance deployment capabilities and ensure the safety of personnel conducting border surveillance in the Macrozona Norte and security operations in the Macrozona Sur.
The potential acquisition is linked to the Ministry of National Defense’s Project Cromo, which initially aimed to procure 40 8×8 vehicles. However, after the original tender was declared void, the project was restructured to include options for 4×4 and 6×6 platforms.
As part of the evaluation process, a delegation of experts from the Chilean Army may soon visit Roshel Inc.’s facilities to conduct a firsthand assessment of the Senator 4×4’s features and capabilities.
Roshel’s Senator 4×4 is known for its advanced protection systems, modular design, and adaptability to a wide range of missions. Designed for border surveillance, troop transport, and tactical support, the vehicle provides enhanced mobility and security in high-threat environments. Its features include modular armor systems, blast-resistant undercarriage designs, and integrated communication and surveillance technologies.
The Senator’s potential deployment in Chile would address critical gaps in operational capabilities, particularly in regions with heightened security demands, such as the Macrozona Norte and Sur.
The Chilean Army plans to pursue this acquisition through direct negotiation, bypassing a traditional tender process. This would be facilitated by the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC), streamlining the transaction and expediting delivery timelines. The CCC has previously enabled similar defense acquisitions, fostering international collaboration between Canada and partner nations.
If approved, the acquisition of the Senator 4×4 vehicles would enhance the Army’s ability to respond effectively to emerging threats, ensuring the safety of personnel and the fulfillment of national security objectives.
An official decision is expected following the expert delegation’s evaluation visit and subsequent negotiations.