New mega data center boosts artificial intelligence in a country with limited resources: where is it located?

May 3, 2026

TL;DR

Armenia is building a 125 MW data center in Hrazdan, driven by Firebird AI, to become a major player in artificial intelligence.
The project, with an investment of approximately US$3.98 billion, is described as a national version of the Stargate program.
The initiative signifies Armenia's geopolitical shift towards the West, reducing reliance on Russia and increasing US influence.
The data center will be equipped with Nvidia's advanced Blackwell processors, with US authorization for their sale.
The majority of the capacity will be leased to foreign clients, primarily American, with 20% for the local market.
Challenges include potential chip delivery uncertainties and the need to develop local AI talent amidst a historical brain drain.
Energy supply will be a mix of nuclear, hydro, thermal, solar, and wind, with potential future expansion.
The project aims to elevate the technological level of local companies and create a talent development ecosystem.

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