Israel has officially launched its national AI supercomputer, providing hi-tech companies and academic researchers with access to advanced computing power using discounted Nvidia B200 accelerators. Announced by the Israel Innovation Authority, the initiative aims to bolster the country’s competitiveness in the global AI race.
The supercomputer is part of Israel’s National Program for AI R&D Infrastructure, also known as the Telem Program. AI cloud provider Nebius has been selected to build and operate the system, which is already live. The next phase of allocating access to the computing resources is now underway.
Over the coming years, the program will distribute 1,000 Nvidia B200 accelerators, with 70% allocated to companies training large AI models and 30% reserved for academic research. The Innovation Authority has said allocations could expand if demand increases.
Dror Bin, CEO of the Israel Innovation Authority, described the launch as a major milestone in Israel’s technological strategy. He emphasized that the supercomputer will accelerate innovation, allowing local companies and researchers to develop and train large models domestically, reducing costs and dependence on foreign cloud infrastructure.
The initiative addresses a growing global shortage of AI computing resources. As demand for GPUs to train large models surges worldwide, companies often face long waits and high costs. By offering guaranteed access to dedicated GPU clusters within Israel, the program removes these barriers and enables faster, more cost-effective R&D.
Bin noted that while over 90% of Israeli hi-tech workers use AI and some 22,000 companies have integrated it into products, Israel previously lacked a supercomputer specifically designed for AI. This system ensures that innovation and IP remain domestic, supporting start-ups whose R&D is registered in Israel. Selection will be based on innovation, economic potential, and team capability. Companies will request at least 16 accelerators and academic groups at least eight, for periods ranging from one to six months.
Complementary initiatives over the past year, including national data repositories in health and agritech, aim to expand Israel’s AI workforce and ensure the country can deploy advanced AI technologies effectively. Officials note that maintaining leadership will require ongoing investment in computing power, talent, and infrastructure.
