Intel has announced plans to invest €5 billion ($5.6 billion) in upgrades to its manufacturing campus in Leixlip, Ireland, as the tech giant looks to meet the growing demand for artificial intelligence and high-performance computing technology.

In a July 13 release, Intel detailed how the investment will be used to expand production at its Leixlip campus, while boosting research and development, and strengthening its European semiconductor supply chain. The expansion will also include upgrades to existing fabrication facilities, and the installation of new high-end manufacturing equipment. 

“By investing in our existing fabs with state-of-the-art technology and installing cutting-edge tools... we are ensuring that Ireland remains at the forefront of the world’s most advanced manufacturing ecosystems, while strengthening the region’s role in the global technology landscape," said Intel Foundry executive VP and CTO Naga Chandrasekaran. 

Chandrasekaran added that the expanded campus will produce Intel's Xeon 6 processors and next-generation Xeon chips, which are designed to power AI systems and other advanced software. Since 1989, Intel has invested more than €30 billion in its Ireland operations, and currently employs 4,900 people at its Leixlip campus. The new investment is expected to add hundreds more jobs.