Containerized Edge data center firm Armada is deploying its pods at a number of sites for Saudi oil giant Aramco.
Aramco Digital, Armada, and Microsoft this week announced a collaboration to deploy Armada’s satellite-connected Galleon Edge data centers and Commander software platform in Saudi Arabia.
These deployments utilize Microsoft Azure's cloud in Armada's Galleon infrastructure; this includes Azure IoT Operations for data ingestion, Azure Arc for managing resources within the Galleon, and Azure Local for distributed infrastructure.
The first deployment integrates AI-driven digital safety solutions for Aramco's construction sites and energy facilities, using computer vision and generative AI for predictive safety monitoring and real-time reporting.
Building on the successful deployment of the first unit, the companies said they are working to scale coverage across Saudi Arabia.
Further details on how many Galleons will be deployed, and where, were not shared.
"Our collaboration with Armada and Microsoft reinforces Aramco's commitment to leveraging advanced technologies to optimize operations and drive innovation," said Nabil Al Nuaim, SVP of digital & information technology at Aramco. "The integration of Edge computing and real-world AI within our industrial sites will enhance our ability to make data-driven decisions in real time, further strengthening our position as a global leader in digital transformation."
Armada emerged from stealth in late 2023. The startup is targeting remote and off-grid applications such as defense and mining.
The California-based company offers ruggedized and self-contained satellite-connected data center modules (in 3-rack 20ft and 6-rack 40ft models) known as Galleons that use SpaceX’s Starlink network, and an Edge device and computing management platform. It also offers Edge/AI applications.
"The deployment of Galleons in Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with Aramco Digital and Microsoft, marks a significant milestone in advancing real-world AI through edge computing," said Dan Wright, co-founder and CEO of Armada.
Armada has raised more than $100 million to date. Investors in the company include Microsoft, Founders Fund, Lux Capital, Shield Capital, 8090 Industries, Felicis, Contrary, Valor Equity Partners, Marlinspike, 137 Ventures, Koch Real Estate Investments, and 8VC.
Douglas Phillips, corporate VP, Azure Edge + platform at Microsoft, added: "Microsoft is proud to support Aramco Digital and Armada in extending Azure to the Edge, ensuring that mission-critical operations benefit from the power and flexibility of Edge computing in real time. This collaboration is a testament to the potential of AI and edge computing to transform industries and accelerate Saudi Arabia's digital future."
Armada previously had a proof-of-concept trial with mining company Nexa Resources.
Last year, the company signed a deal with Middle Eastern data center engineering consulting and cloud services firm Edarat Group to deploy ten Galleons across the Gulf and Middle East.
Armada recently signed a deal to deploy two pods at sites operated by startup venture platform Newlab in Detroit, Michigan, and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The company also recently partnered with South African MSP 4Sight to offer its containers to mining companies in the country.
Microsoft, meanwhile, announced its own modular container-sized data center back in 2020 - also with optional SpaceX Starlink connectivity. Prices for Armada’s Commander Edge service – which includes the Galleon data center – start at $450,000 for one year on the Azure marketplace.
Aramco has previously signed a partnership with Google Cloud.
