Aramco Digital, Armada, and Microsoft have partnered to deploy Galleon edge data centers, the Commander software platform, and real-world AI applications in Saudi Arabia. This initiative marks a significant milestone in advancing AI-driven automation, real-time computing, and digital transformation across Saudi Aramco’s operations.
Using Microsoft Azure’s cloud technology with Armada’s Galleon infrastructure, these deployments provide secure and fast computing at the edge. Key Azure components include Azure IoT Operations for data ingestion, Azure Arc for resource management, and Azure Local for distributed infrastructure.
By enabling real-time data processing and analysis, this collaboration facilitates low-latency AI applications, automated safety monitoring, and advanced operational intelligence, enhancing Aramco’s efficiency and resilience across industrial sites.
Leadership Insights
“Our partnership with Armada and Microsoft reinforces Aramco’s commitment to harnessing advanced technologies to optimize operations and drive innovation,” said Nabil Al Nuaim, Senior Vice President of Digital & Information Technology at Aramco. “Integrating edge computing and real-world AI into our industrial sites strengthens our ability to make data-driven decisions in real time, further solidifying our position as a global leader in digital transformation.”
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This partnership brings together cloud scalability, edge resilience, and AI insights. It aims to improve operations across Saudi Arabia. The Galleon edge data centers will act as cloud hubs. They will support Aramco’s large-scale data center plan. Also, they will provide strong AI abilities on-site. This helps with real-time decision-making.
Douglas Phillips, Corporate Vice President, Azure Edge + Platform, highlighted the significance of the partnership: “Microsoft is proud to support Aramco Digital and Armada in extending Azure to the edge, ensuring that mission-critical operations benefit from real-time computing power and flexibility. This collaboration exemplifies how AI and edge computing can transform industries and accelerate Saudi Arabia’s digital future.”
Advancing AI and Connectivity
Armada is providing Aramco Digital with advanced satellite communication solutions. This is part of the Galleon framework. Armada’s Commander software works with a strong network of satellite partners. This setup provides fast and reliable connectivity in remote and low-bandwidth areas. As a result, it supports smooth operations at Aramco’s key sites.
“The deployment of Galleons in Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with Aramco Digital and Microsoft, marks a major milestone in advancing real-world AI through edge computing,” said Dan Wright, Co-founder and CEO of Armada. “By bringing real-time processing
capabilities directly to Aramco’s critical operations, we’re unlocking new levels of efficiency, safety, and intelligence at the edge. This is only the start of a global journey to expand these capabilities.”
The initial deployment integrates AI-driven digital safety solutions for Aramco’s construction sites and energy facilities, utilizing computer vision and generative AI for predictive safety monitoring and real-time reporting. Galleons support large-scale sensor networks, including cameras and IoT systems, enabling real-time vision-based reporting, robotics, and multimodal AI applications.
Scaling Innovation and Vision 2030 Alignment
After deploying the first unit, the collaboration plans to expand coverage across Saudi Arabia. This will provide high-performance edge computing wherever Aramco works. These efforts support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. They promote tech innovation, skill development, and AI-led industrial upgrades.
Armada is boosting AI adoption by setting up a local presence in Saudi Arabia. They will provide dedicated support resources and establish a regional headquarters. Also, they plan to start local manufacturing. The partnership will also create joint innovation labs and training programs. This will help prepare the next generation of AI and cloud computing professionals.
This collaboration is a key step toward a connected, smart industrial future. It creates new efficiencies and strengthens Saudi Aramco’s role in AI-driven energy and digital infrastructure.
