Warhound Launches $200 Million Venture to Clone Elite Military Dogs
A new startup backed by Palmer Luckey and Ben Lamm aims to produce genetically improved service dogs for the US armed forces by 2027.
By Mei Lin ·
Warhound, a newly formed startup, has raised $200 million to develop genetically modified dogs for the United States military. The company is a joint venture involving Ben Lamm of Colossal Biosciences and Palmer Luckey of Anduril. Its primary goal is to breed superior service animals equipped with advanced technology to support military operations.
The biological process has already begun. Lamm stated that the team is editing genes from cell samples taken from high-performing dogs in military, police, and first responder roles. These donors are primarily Belgian Malinois, with some labradors and shepherds included. Scientists at Colossal will modify the genetic material and then clone the animals to create the new generation of service dogs.
The initial phase of research targets common health issues in these breeds. The team aims to reduce the likelihood of hip dysplasia and specific cancers. Lamm indicated that future modifications could enhance physical performance, such as increasing speed and agility or sharpening the animals' sense of smell.
Both founders bring significant experience to the project. Luckey, who founded Oculus VR, leads Anduril. His defense firm partnered with OpenAI in 2024 to build artificial intelligence for the Pentagon. Anduril also recently secured a US Army contract to develop a next-generation battlefield intelligence system with Palantir. Lamm’s Colossal Biosciences is known for de-extinction projects, including efforts to revive the dire wolf and woolly mammoth.
Anduril’s contribution focuses on hardware and software rather than biology. The company will design protective gear for the dogs, including goggles, vests, and body armor. This equipment is intended to safeguard the animals during their duties. Warhound is not currently planning to create cyborg dogs, keeping the technology separate from the genetic modifications.
The corporate structure differs slightly from the public partnership. Although Luckey is a partner, neither he nor Anduril owns a stake in Warhound. Colossal Biosciences holds equity in the startup, and Lamm serves on the board. David Spirk, a former Palantir executive, has been appointed as CEO to lead the operation.
The first batch of these engineered dogs is expected to be born in early 2027. They will undergo training for standard service roles, including bomb detection and search-and-rescue missions. The project represents a significant step in integrating biotechnology with military logistics.
Source: Engadget
