OTTAWA — Canadian defense manufacturer Roshel has announced a strategic partnership with the Swedish steel company Swebor, allowing for the domestically-produced ballistic-protection steel in Canada for the very first time. This collaboration marks a significant step towards strengthening Canada's defense manufacturing capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign imports for critical materials.

Roshel, known for its manufacturing of armored vehicles, will leverage Swebor’s intellectual property to initiate the production of ballistic steel within Canada. This development is particularly timely as Canada is actively seeking to increase domestic steel consumption while enhancing its defense sector, particularly in light of tensions arising from the ongoing trade disputes with the United States under the administration of former President Donald Trump.

Ballistic steel is a specialized form of lightweight, hardened steel designed to provide protection against both blasts and ballistic threats. Roman Shimonov, CEO of Roshel, highlighted that although Canada is one of the largest producers and exporters of steel and iron, the country has not been equipped to fully manufacture ballistic steel for armored vehicles or drones domestically until now. This gap has led to significant supply chain bottlenecks for Canadian defense firms, which have previously relied on imports of steel armor from suppliers in the United States, Europe, and Australia.

The new arrangement with Swebor not only aims to mitigate these supply chain issues but also fosters the growth of the domestic defense sector. By producing ballistic steel locally, Canadian manufacturers can potentially lower costs, improve delivery timelines, and enhance the overall resilience of the country’s defense capabilities. The initiative reflects a broader strategy by the Canadian government and industry leaders to bolster local production and innovation in defense technologies.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on August 19, 2025, signaling a pivotal change in Canada's approach to defense manufacturing and its sourcing of critical materials. As geopolitical dynamics evolve, such partnerships are likely to play a crucial role in shaping a more self-reliant and robust defense industry in Canada.