ViaSat UK has announced a range of USB flash drives certified to store sensitive and “top secret” data.

Approved by the Communications-Electronics Security Group (CESG), the specialised “Eclypt Nano” range of drives use 256-bit AES encryption and support password and keystone authentication.

In a number of high-profile cases, involving the likes of BP, Zurich and the NHS, the consequences of losing unsecured drives have been significant, and include the loss of customer data, financial information and business plans.

"Now government bodies can balance the strongest security as certified by CESG with the portability and practicality of a USB drive, combined with a rugged design," said ViaSat’s chief executive Chris McIntosh.

"As a result, the UK can have peace of mind that sensitive data can be protected to the appropriate level regardless of where it is, what it is being used for and by whom it is being used."

Prices for the Eclypt Nano range start at £99 for a 2GB drive. 4GB and 8GB drives are also available with the addition of extra security. Drives for the public and commercial sector can be managed through ViaSat's Orion management software, while government-owned drives allows “cryptographic officers to manage devices under their jurisdiction.”

After 18 months in development and a further 18 months under trial, the Eclypt 600 Enhanced Nano, the highest-graded flash drive, has won the top security certification from CESG.

"Any attempt to break into the device will destroy the electronic components and make the encryption key and data impossible to access," assured the company.

ViaSat's next project involves assessing bandwidth cost reduction methods for the U.S. Department of Defence.