Apricorn gains AS9100 for aerospace-grade USB security
Apricorn has gained AS9100 certification, making it the only manufacturer of hardware-encrypted USB storage devices accredited to the aerospace, aviation and defence quality management standard.
AS9100 is an internationally recognised Quality Management System standard used across aviation, space and defence supply chains. It builds on ISO 9001 and adds sector-specific requirements such as risk management, configuration control, supply chain oversight, product traceability and continuous improvement.
The certification also aligns with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency framework, which relies on organisational quality systems across manufacturing, maintenance and design environments. In these sectors, companies often face strict procurement rules and audit expectations, with quality controls assessed alongside technical and security requirements.
Apricorn makes hardware-encrypted USB drives that do not rely on installed software for encryption. Its devices use 256-bit AES XTS encryption and are used to protect data stored on the device and data transferred between locations.
Audit Process
AS9100 certification requires third-party audits to confirm an organisation runs repeatable, controlled processes. Assessments typically cover operational consistency, corrective action procedures and risk mitigation. They also examine how a supplier documents decisions and manages changes to products and processes.
Apricorn said the certification reflects discipline across design and manufacturing controls, supplier management and documentation. It added that this matters to customers in tightly regulated environments, where procurement decisions can depend on formal quality accreditation.
"Achieving AS9100 reflects the rigor embedded throughout our organisation, from design and manufacturing controls to supplier management and documentation. The AS9100 certification further strengthens Apricorn's position as a trusted partner to organisations that require secure, reliable, and compliant data protection solutions," said Kurt Markley, managing director at Apricorn.
Procurement Signals
Aerospace and defence programmes often require suppliers to demonstrate both product assurance and organisational control. AS9100 is widely used in supplier selection because it standardises expectations for quality and traceability. It also provides a common basis for oversight when multiple organisations and tiers of suppliers contribute to a programme.
Apricorn said the certification provides buyers with independent assurance. "For our aerospace and defence customers, it serves as an independent assurance that Apricorn products are developed and delivered under a quality management framework designed for mission-critical use," Markley said.
Apricorn also sells into regulated sectors beyond aerospace and defence, including government and critical infrastructure operators. These buyers often require strong controls over how equipment is built, handled and supported, in addition to security features.
Security And Quality
Apricorn positioned AS9100 as part of a broader compliance and assurance approach. Its existing certifications include TAA, ISO 9001, CMMC Level 1, SEWP and NATO Restricted, with FIPS 140-3 pending for Q3 2026. These frameworks are used across public sector and regulated procurement, covering areas from sourcing requirements to cybersecurity maturity and cryptographic validation.
Markley also linked quality controls with expectations for secure product delivery and lifecycle management. "As data security becomes increasingly intertwined with national security and operational resilience, quality cannot be separated from cybersecurity," he said.
"Our customers need to know not only that their data is encrypted, but that the devices themselves are manufactured and managed under strict quality controls. AS9100, as well as the other certifications we hold, reinforces that commitment which has always been a major part of Apricorn's DNA," Markley said.
Founded in 1983, Apricorn sells secure storage products across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and Asia. It also develops products for other computer manufacturers on an OEM basis. Apricorn said the new AS9100 accreditation strengthens its position with aerospace, aviation and defence organisations that require suppliers to meet globally recognised quality standards.