The American company Firebird Inc. has received approval from U.S. authorities to supply cutting-edge Nvidia chips to Armenia. In the coming years, one of the region’s most powerful data centers will be established here, focused on advancing artificial intelligence. The initial phase of the project will see a total investment of $500 million.
The new data center plans to use server solutions from Dell Technologies and Nvidia’s Blackwell processors. The facility’s capacity will reach 100 megawatts, comparable to the power consumption of tens of thousands of households. The first phase is expected to launch in the second quarter of 2026.
Technology and investment: who is behind the project
Firebird is among Nvidia’s partners implementing major infrastructure projects worldwide. The company is focusing on boosting computing power for artificial intelligence, accelerating the adoption of new technologies across various industries.
The construction is funded through a mix of debt and equity investments. One of the project’s backers is Moderna Inc. co-founder Noubar Afeyan. Other participants in the investment pool have not yet been disclosed.
Firebird selects regions with developed energy infrastructure for its centers, including nuclear, hydro, and solar generation. In Armenia, a nuclear power plant will serve as the primary energy source. Operating the facility will require as much electricity as roughly 75,000 homes consume.
Changes in export regulations and regional impact
Previously, the US administration classified Armenia among countries with restricted access to advanced AI technologies. This list also included Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Poland. Exports of Nvidia chips to these countries were limited. However, after a change in the country’s leadership, the restrictions were lifted, paving the way for large-scale technological projects.
At the new Firebird center, about 20% of computing power will be available to Armenian users. The remaining resources are allocated to American companies operating in the region. This approach will not only strengthen Armenia’s position on the global tech map, but also attract additional investment to the national economy.
The construction of the Firebird data center in Armenia could serve as a launchpad for further development of the AI industry in the region. The project may shift the balance of power in the high-tech market and create new opportunities for international cooperation.
