ZTE and SKY47 Launch Pakistan’s Largest Purpose-Built AI-Ready Data Center Campus

ZTE Corporation, a global leader in integrated information and communication technology solutions, together with SKY47, Pakistan’s leading digital infrastructure and sovereign cloud provider, has officially launched Karakoram-01 — the country’s first and largest purpose-built, AI-ready data center campus. The facility, located in Islamabad, marks a significant step in Pakistan’s journey toward digital transformation and economic modernization.

The inauguration ceremony, held on July 24, was officiated by Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, with Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Lieutenant General (Retd) Anwar Ali Hyder, Chairman of Fauji Group of Companies, and James Zhang, Senior Vice President of ZTE, among the attendees. The event underscored the strategic importance of the project for Pakistan’s national digital agenda.

Sky47 Karakoram-01 is more than a conventional data center. It is a purpose-built infrastructure platform designed for sovereign cloud, AI acceleration, and enterprise transformation. Developed to global standards with a strong emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and security, the facility is engineered to support the growing demands of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and high-performance computing. It also plays a critical role in safeguarding sensitive national and commercial data, positioning itself as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s emerging AI ecosystem.

As the country’s first purpose-built AI-ready Tier III data center, Karakoram-01 boasts a total power capacity of 8.5MW. ZTE delivered a fully optimized end-to-end data center solution, completing the MEP components in just eight months — a timeline that highlights the company’s world-class expertise in data center planning, integration, and construction. The facility integrates advanced technologies such as cold-plate liquid cooling, prefabricated power modules, and intelligent busbars, enabling flexible cooling and power supply for high-density computing. This scalable, future-proof infrastructure is tailored for AI computing and designed to adapt seamlessly to long-term demand for AI compute power.

During the ceremony, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the flagship project as a remarkable achievement and expressed confidence in its pivotal role in Pakistan’s technological transformation. He specifically commended ZTE, the core technical partner, for its unwavering commitment and exceptional technological expertise, citing previous successful collaborations including solar energy projects in Punjab province. He described Karakoram-01 as a milestone that will benefit the people of Pakistan and open a new chapter in the nation’s digital infrastructure evolution.

Lieutenant General (Retd) Anwar Ali Hyder also lauded ZTE’s exemplary performance during the construction phase, highlighting the seamless collaboration between ZTE and SKY47 teams. He noted their professionalism and dedication in overcoming multiple challenges to deliver the project on schedule and to the highest standards.

Prior to the main event, ZTE’s Senior Vice President James Zhang joined the Prime Minister for a tree-planting ceremony, where they discussed ZTE’s long-term commitment to driving innovation and supporting critical infrastructure development across Pakistan. Following the ceremony, Hassan Abbas, CEO of SKY47, led dignitaries on a tour of the facility, showcasing its advanced computing capabilities, power management systems, and AI readiness.

The Sky47 management team expressed strong appreciation for ZTE’s delivery capabilities and collaborative approach. Hasnain, Director of Passive Infrastructure at SKY47, remarked, “Having worked in the communications industry for over twenty years, this is the most comprehensively competent delivery team I have ever encountered.” He added that he looks forward to deepening this collaboration on the upcoming Karachi data center project, aiming to create a new benchmark for digital infrastructure in Pakistan.

The successful launch of Sky47 Karakoram-01 represents a major milestone in Pakistan’s digital infrastructure development and reinforces ZTE’s deep partnership with local stakeholders. By the end of 2025, ZTE’s data center products had been deployed in over 500 projects globally, with more than 4.3 million racks installed across facilities spanning over 3.5 million square meters. The company’s solutions have received more than 70 industry awards both domestically and internationally.

Looking ahead, ZTE plans to continue leveraging its technological innovation and localized expertise to accelerate the realization of Pakistan’s “Digital Pakistan” strategic vision. Together with its partners, ZTE is committed to writing a new chapter of collaboration in the digital era, contributing to the country’s transformation and progress on a global stage.