Removable data storage device and method of transferring data therefrom for cryptographic processing

Systems and methods using a cryptographic key loader embedded in a removable data storage device are provided. In one embodiment, the removable data storage device can include a dedicated key memory storing one or more cryptographic keys for cryptographic processing of data by a host system. The removable data storage device can further include a dedicated data memory storing data subject to cryptographic processing by the host system. When the removable data cartridge is interfaced with the host system, the cryptographic key(s) and the data subject to cryptographic processing can become accessible to host system.