New shipment for Ukrainians. These are vehicles that save their lives
The Ukrainian armed forces have received another batch of Senator vehicles from the Canadian company Roshel. This time, they are exceptionally durable MRAP models with enhancements the manufacturer added based on lessons learned from the ongoing war. We outline the key features and capabilities of these vehicles.
9:47 PM EDT, October 23, 2023
Canada is one of the countries that has been most involved in aid for Kyiv. It regularly supplies, among other things, Senator vehicles. The Minister of Defense of Ukraine, Oleksiy Reznikov, once confirmed that by the end of 2023, the defender's army will have over 1 thousand such vehicles.
The Senator APC variants most often end up in Ukraine, which are presented as multipurpose armored transporters. Among others, some of which Ukrainians have already had the opportunity to use, include the Senator MRAP (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected). A total of 200 units is expected to be sent to the front. It was not stated how many were in the latest batch.
"Senator in the MRAP version for Ukrainians"
The manufacturer claims to have improved the mine protection here and developed the vehicle "considering the experience of Ukrainian military gained during the war with Russia".
The most important feature of the Senator MRAP is its V-shaped hull. It is this feature that increases the survivability of the vehicle and its crew by mitigating the effects of mine explosions. Special shock-absorbing seats are also installed to minimize the impact of the explosive force on the crew. The interior of the Senator MRAP can accommodate up to 10 people.
"You feel safer when you know that there is special protection against Russian mines under your feet," said one of the Ukrainian soldiers quoted by Defence Blog.
How long will Senator MRAP last?
Senator MRAP can withstand the detonation (under any tire or under the vehicle) of an explosive charge weighing up to approximately 13 lbs. Anti-tank protection, on the other hand, is effective against 7.62 x 39 mm ammunition (at a range of up to about 98 feet).
The power unit is no different from that of the Senator APC. A 6.7-litre (approximately 407 cubic inches) engine with 330 HP has been used, as well as an automatic transmission and 4x4 drive. The Senator MRAP is also characterized by a high ground clearance. All these elements make it excellently good in terrain, in difficult conditions.
