Defense Tech: Warhound Raises $200M to Clone Elite Military Canines
The startup, backed by Ben Lamm and Palmer Luckey, aims to produce the first gene-edited service dogs by early 2027.
By Chioma Kim ·
Warhound has closed a $200 million funding round to develop genetically modified dogs for the United States military.
The startup is a joint venture involving Ben Lamm, co-founder of Colossal Biosciences, and Palmer Luckey, who founded Oculus VR and Anduril Industries. Lamm told Wired that the company has already begun editing the genes of cell samples taken from its first group of donor dogs. These samples were collected from top-performing military, police, and first responder canines across the country, primarily Belgian Malinois, with some Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds included.
Colossal Biosciences will handle the biological work, modifying the animals' genes before cloning them. The initial research phase focuses on reducing the likelihood of breed-specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia and certain cancers. Lamm suggested to TechCrunch that the team may pursue additional genetic changes later, potentially enhancing speed, agility, or olfactory capabilities.
Anduril, Luckey's defense company, will provide the equipment rather than the biology. The partnership is not planning to create cyborg dogs at this stage. Instead, Anduril will design protective gear and the software that runs it. This includes items such as goggles, vests, and body armor intended to safeguard the animals during operational duties.
The ownership structure of the venture differs from its public profile. Although Luckey is a partner, neither he nor Anduril holds an equity stake in the startup. Colossal Biosciences does hold equity, and Lamm serves on the board. David Spirk, who most recently worked at Palantir, holds the position of CEO. Anduril has recently won a US Army contract to build the service's next-generation battlefield intelligence system alongside Palantir.
Warhound expects the first batch of these engineered dogs to be born in early 2027. The animals will be trained to perform standard working dog tasks, including bomb detection and search-and-rescue operations.
Source: Engadget
