The first major shipment of NVIDIA Blackwell-generation graphics processing units (GPUs) has arrived at Yerevan Zvartnots International Airport, marking the practical launch of the Firebird AI megaproject, Armenia’s Minister of High-Tech Industry Mkhitar Hayrapetyan announced on Facebook.
According to the minister, he visited the airport together with Firebird AI co-founder Alexander Yesayan, where the first shipment of 1,792 GPUs arrived at dawn. The delivery is part of a total planned deployment of 6,144 NVIDIA Blackwell GPUs for the project’s first phase.
“The first phase envisions the launch of a modern 18 MW AI factory in Hrazdan, equipped with high-performance computing resources based on NVIDIA Blackwell architecture. The data center will utilize a closed-loop water-cooling system that is filled once and used for several years, ensuring high energy efficiency and reliable operation,” Hayrapetyan wrote.
Investments in the first phase are estimated at approximately $500 million. During the second phase, up to $4 billion in additional investments are expected, along with the deployment of around 42,000 more GPUs, positioning Armenia among the world’s top five countries with the most powerful AI data centers.
Following the launch of the first phase, the center is expected to employ up to 100 highly qualified specialists. More than 1,000 professionals will be involved in the construction and expansion works of the second phase, creating new high-paid jobs.
A key component of the project is the $25 million strategic program signed between the Government of Armenia and Firebird AI. Under the agreement, the Armenian state will receive access to high-performance AI computing resources for five years to support local startups, research groups, universities, and specialists, as well as to facilitate their use in government institutions, technology companies, and research and development initiatives in high-tech sectors.
