Palmer Luckey, the visionary behind Oculus VR and Anduril, is back with a new venture called Warhound, aiming to create genetically enhanced dogs for U.S. military, law enforcement, and first responders. The startup has secured a massive $200 million to bolster the domestic supply of elite working canines and lessen reliance on European breeders.
Warhound, a joint effort with Ben Lamm, co-founder of Colossal Biosciences, is already in the process of gene-editing its first cohort of dogs. The company is collecting DNA from top-performing military and police dogs, with the goal of cloning them. Expect breeds like Belgian Malinois, Labs, and German Shepherds to be central to the program, with the first litters anticipated in early 2027.
Initial gene-editing efforts will focus on eliminating common breed health issues, such as hip dysplasia. Looking ahead, Lamm envisions more ambitious modifications, like integrating genes from wolves to boost the dogs' olfactory capabilities. This mirrors Colossal Biosciences' work on its "Dire Wolf De-Extinction Project."
Based in Texas, Warhound also plans to integrate Anduril's advanced tech, including cybernetic augments and software for battlefield awareness. However, Lamm clarified that this doesn't mean cyborg dogs with embedded computers, but rather equipping them with advanced gear like body armor. While laser-equipped dogs are off the table for now, Lamm hinted that Anduril's plans remain an open question.
Although Luckey and Lamm won't be involved in the daily operations, Lamm sits on Warhound's board. The company's leadership includes CEO David Spirk, formerly of the Department of Defense and Palantir, with investments from prominent firms like In-Q-Tel and Sequoia Capital. Luckey himself holds no equity in Warhound, though Colossal Biosciences does have an ownership stake.
The project has been in development for over a year, with Lamm likening it to a "Captain America dog program with the Ironman tech program on top of it." Warhound plans to operate under the guidelines of the American Humane Society.
