Chicago Atlantic announced it acted as the sole arranger and lender of a $35 million senior secured term loan to Meridian Rapid Defense Group, a security company specializing in deployable vehicle barrier systems.
Founded in 2005, Meridian designs, sells, and rents crash-tested mobile steel barrier systems engineered to stop or restrict unauthorized or out-of-control vehicles from harming pedestrians in public environments. The company primarily serves government agencies, military organizations, transportation authorities, event operators, and infrastructure owners. Meridian’s products are manufactured in the United States using American steel and support domestic manufacturing through its nationwide factory network.
Meridian has developed a deployable perimeter security platform over more than two decades, supported by a portfolio of patented products and technologies certified under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s SAFETY Act. In recent years, the company transitioned away from third-party distributors and established a dedicated in-house national salesforce, improving customer coverage, sales execution, and conversion rates.
In 2025, Meridian deployed more than 250,000 barriers globally. The company has also established a nationwide network supporting rentals, events, and infrastructure deployments, helping expand its operational scale and geographic reach.
Meridian was awarded the FIFA World Cup contract covering all U.S. event locations and is also pursuing related opportunities tied to FIFA fan festivals and America’s 250th Anniversary celebrations.
David Enright said:
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“Meridian is dedicated to helping people enjoy life’s experiences with confidence and peace of mind. We are excited to serve as the company’s primary capital partner.”
David Enright, Partner & Head of Direct Lending, Chicago Atlantic
“We are thrilled to partner with such a driven and passionate entrepreneur. Meridian is dedicated to helping people enjoy life’s experiences with confidence and peace of mind. We are excited to serve as the company’s primary capital partner and support its continued growth and expansion.”
David Enright, Partner & Head of Direct Lending, Chicago Atlantic
Peter D. Whitford added:
“Meridian is excited to work with Chicago Atlantic in supporting our growth initiatives. They have a tremendous understanding of our industry, and we look forward to working with them over the coming years.”
Peter D. Whitford, CEO, Meridian Rapid Defense Group
