Aviation specialist secures multimillion-pound export finance package

A Nottinghamshire-based aviation specialist has secured its second multimillion-pound funding package from Santander, supported by UK Export Finance.
DEA Aviation hopes to ‘match international growing demand’ to expand its Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) services, with over 80% of its business focused on international exports.
Last year, DEA secured a £16.5m funding boost from Santander, which helped expand its workforce by 10%.
The firm now employs over 220 people globally, including engineers, pilots, sensor operators, systems architects, and software developers.
DEA is a technology-driven provider of aerial data acquisition services in ISR, search and rescue and aerial mapping.
The company plays a critical role in national security, providing real-time intelligence for border protection and other security operations.
In 2024, DEA flew 24/7 ISR and search and rescue missions for European customers, delivering vital support in preventing illegal activities.
Joanna Allen, CFO of the DEA Group said “This new funding package, enabled by UKEF, positions DEA to continue a strong growth trajectory in its export and ISR operations internationally as the worldwide demand continues to mount. The funding recognises that DEA is a substantial exporter and will enable the company to continue to build upon the momentum that we have generated over the past year”
Liz Pickering, relationship director at Santander Corporate and Commercial said: “We are pleased to have provided DEA Group with an additional lending package to support the Group’s expansion. The funding will help the business establish itself further as a major exporter of tech-led aerial data services. We look forward to continuing working with the DEA team and UKEF.”
DEA was advised by Squire Patton Boggs. Santander UK plc and UKEF were advised by Clifford Chance.