Lamm and Luckey back $200 million startup to engineer elite military dogs

Warhound has secured $200 million in funding to develop genetically modified dogs for the United States military. The startup, a collaboration between Ben Lamm of Colossal Biosciences and Palmer Luckey of Anduril, intends to combine biological engineering with advanced hardware. Lamm told Wired that the company has already begun editing genes from cell samples taken from its first group of donor dogs. These samples were sourced from high-performing military, police, and first-responder animals across the country, primarily Belgian Malinois, with a smaller number of Labrador and shepherd breeds.

The initial phase of research focuses on reducing the likelihood of hereditary health issues common to these breeds. Specific targets include hip dysplasia and certain cancers. Lamm told TechCrunch that future iterations of the program could include genetic modifications designed to increase speed and agility, or to enhance the animals' olfactory capabilities. The process involves Colossal scientists modifying the genetic code before cloning the animals to produce the new generation.

Both founders bring extensive experience from the technology and defense sectors. Luckey previously founded Oculus VR and designed the Oculus Rift headset. His company, Anduril, has secured a US Army contract to build next-generation battlefield intelligence systems in partnership with Palantir. Lamm’s Colossal Biosciences is known for de-extinction projects, including efforts to revive the dire wolf and the woolly mammoth. While Luckey is a partner in the venture, neither he nor Anduril holds an equity stake in Warhound. Colossal Biosciences holds equity, and Lamm sits on the board. David Spirk, formerly of Palantir, serves as the chief executive officer.

Anduril’s involvement is limited to the development of equipment and software rather than the biological aspects of the program. The company will design tools intended to protect the dogs during operations, including goggles, vests, and body armor. Warhound is not currently planning to create cyborg animals, focusing instead on enhancing the natural capabilities of the canines through genetic means. The startup expects the first batch of these engineered dogs to be born in early 2027.

Once born, the animals will undergo training for standard working dog roles. These include bomb detection and search-and-rescue operations. The funding allows the team to proceed with the cloning process and the development of the accompanying protective gear. The project represents a merger of two distinct approaches to defense technology, pairing Lamm’s biological research with Luckey’s hardware engineering.