How to create an image with an additional data disk?

[MatthewTurney]

We are transitioning our existing imaging process to Azure Image Builder, but some of our images require a data disk to be included in the image. Is there a way to do so via Image Builder, or any plans to include this functionality?

As far as I can tell, the best workaround currently would be to distribute to a VHD, create an image using that VHD as the OS disk and specify a data disk (created separately), and then use that to create an image gallery version - unless there's a better way I'm not aware of?

Thanks for your help!

[anglopez]

We are currently facing the same issue. I can create servers from the Image Gallery with the data disk all setup, but the Image Builders deletes it. We were working on automating the custom image patch with the Azure Devops - Azure VM Image Builder Test task. But it looks that its necessary to updates the custom images manually.

Image Builder delete action:
PACKER OUT ==> azure-arm: Deleting Additional Disk -> 1