What will Armenia’s AI factory be capable of? Interview with Rev Lebaredian

Technology has always changed the world. Steam engines launched industry, electricity illuminated cities, and computers opened the age of information. Today, we stand on the threshold of a new, fourth revolution — the revolution of artificial intelligence. Armenia is building its own AI factory — can the country catch this technological wave and join the ranks of global leaders? What opportunities does AI bring, and why is leadership in this field crucial for nations? NVIDIA Vice President Rev Lebaredian discussed these questions and more on the program “Did You Know?”

Team Telecom Armenia is the partner of the science and technology interview series.

AI Factory: The Heart of Armenia’s New Technological Power

Lebaredian explained that a fundamental shift in software development occurred about a decade ago with the invention of deep learning and neural networks. “In the past, a single smart person with a laptop could invent an algorithm and build software worth billions. Today, we can create algorithms that are beyond human imagination,” he said.

Modern AI systems can recognize images, generate poetry, and solve complex industrial problems — tasks that humans can no longer directly code. Instead, a supercomputer receives millions of examples of what needs to be achieved and generates the software itself. “The core tool of modern computer science — and the key to staying at the forefront — is the supercomputer. The more powerful it is, the greater the possibilities,” Lebaredian emphasized.

He added that without an AI factory, it’s impossible to create modern software — and to use that software effectively, you also need the factory. “The more computational and AI capacity you have, the more you can apply AI to improve every kind of application. It can be used in every industry and economic sector,” he said.

Lebaredian revealed that the AI factory in Armenia will develop in stages. Even in its first phase, it will function as a powerful supercomputer equipped with more than 5,000 next-generation Blackwell GPUs, capable of supporting a wide range of applications, including ChatGPT and other advanced AI systems.

“Initially, the main goal of the factory is to meet external demand,” he explained. “We can provide computing power to companies developing chatbots, LLMs, and other AI agents that integrate into business and consumer services. The market is global — and we can sell as much capacity as we want.”

Beyond the commercial aspect, Lebaredian highlighted the importance of supporting science and startups within the country. A portion of the computing power will be reserved for universities, Armenian AI companies, and projects — giving them a competitive edge and helping turn ideas into real-world applications.

Armenia’s Supercomputer: Nearing Completion

Lebaredian stated that construction of the supercomputer is progressing rapidly, with the goal of finishing the physical build by the end of this year. “Yes, by the end of this year. We’re moving fast,” he said. Once construction is complete, the factory is expected to be fully operational in the first quarter of next year. “This isn’t just possible — it’s likely. If everyone does their part and believes in success, there’s no reason it shouldn’t work,” he added.

He noted that construction is already underway, while NVIDIA is assembling and testing the supercomputer’s key components and developing multi-layered software systems to run AI factories. Thanks to a unified design concept, the facility will require minimal adjustments after installation.

The first phase of the factory is planned to deliver up to 100 megawatts of power, enough for virtually any modern AI application and for training almost any AI model. “It’s a pretty big supercomputer — one of the largest AI factories in existence today,” Lebaredian said.

He emphasized that this is only the beginning — Armenia’s potential allows for further expansion of its energy capacity. “Even though the country has significant generation potential, much of it remains underused due to fluctuations in demand. But with the AI factory, we can boost energy production — from nuclear, hydro, and solar sources — and eventually reach multi-gigawatt levels,” he explained.

AI Factory: A Multiplier for Armenia’s Economic Growth

Lebaredian elaborated on how the AI factory will impact Armenia’s economy. First, its very existence as an operating business creates jobs and generates tax revenue — both from employee salaries and the company’s activities. “That alone increases state income and benefits the economy,” he stressed.

In addition to direct tax revenue, a share of the factory’s computing power will be allocated to educational institutions, startups, and companies integrating AI into their business processes and public systems. This will allow young specialists and innovative projects to access cutting-edge infrastructure, accelerating idea development and product rollout — adding further value to the economy.

Lebaredian also noted that having such a facility attracts global attention. “We’re showing the world that Armenia takes the high-tech sector, computer science, and engineering seriously. By investing in core infrastructure, we’re sending a signal: this is a place where advanced research and future technologies can thrive,” he said.

He believes this strengthens the country’s image internationally and encourages real investment. Global technology companies, in particular, will see Armenia as a trustworthy and promising location for their projects. “Attracting investment and earning the confidence of global companies creates new opportunities for Armenia’s economic growth and development,” Lebaredian concluded.