Warhound Raises $200 Million to Create Gene-Edited Military Dogs
A startup co-founded by Palmer Luckey and Ben Lamm plans to clone high-performing working dogs, with the first litter expected in early 2027.
By Pedro Barnes ·
A new venture named Warhound has secured $200 million in funding to develop genetically engineered dogs for the United States military. The startup represents a joint effort between Ben Lamm of Colossal Biosciences and Palmer Luckey of Anduril Industries.
Lamm stated that the company has already begun editing genes from cell samples collected from its first group of donor dogs. These samples were taken from top-performing animals in military, police, and first responder roles across the United States. The donor pool consists primarily of Belgian Malinois, with additional contributions from Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds.
The initial scientific focus will be on cloning these animals after modifying their genetics. The primary goal of this first phase is to reduce the likelihood of common breed-specific health issues. These conditions include hip dysplasia and specific types of cancer that frequently affect working dog breeds.
Lamm indicated that further genetic enhancements may follow the initial cloning process. Proposed modifications include increasing speed and agility or sharpening the animals' sense of smell. These changes are intended to optimize the dogs for high-intensity operational environments.
The founders bring extensive backgrounds in technology and biology. Luckey previously founded Oculus VR and designed the Oculus Rift headset. His defense company, Anduril, partnered with OpenAI in 2024 to develop artificial intelligence for the Pentagon. Anduril also recently won a US Army contract to build the service's next-generation battlefield intelligence system in collaboration with Palantir.
Lamm's Colossal Biosciences has led several de-extinction projects. These include an effort that claims to have revived the dire wolf and a separate project aimed at bringing back the woolly mammoth. This biological expertise forms the core of Warhound's genetic modification strategy.
Anduril will handle the equipment side of the venture rather than the biology. The company is not planning to create cyborg dogs at this stage. Instead, Anduril will design protective tools and the software required to run them. These items include goggles, vests, and body armor intended to protect the animals during work.
The ownership structure of Warhound differs from its public partnership profile. While Luckey is a partner in the business, neither he nor Anduril holds a direct equity stake in the startup. Colossal Biosciences does hold equity, and Lamm serves on the company's board. David Spirk, who most recently worked at Palantir, serves as the chief executive officer.
Warhound expects the first batch of its genetically engineered dogs to be born in early 2027. These animals will undergo training for standard working dog duties. Their primary roles will include bomb detection and assistance in search-and-rescue operations.
