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Palmer Luckey and Ben Lamm Made a Genetically Modified Military Dog Startup
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Warhound, a startup founded by Anduril’s Palmer Luckey and Colossal Biosciences cofounder Ben Lamm, launched today with $200 million to create genetically enhanced dogs for the U.S. military, law enforcement, and emergency responders. The company aims to “rebuild America’s domestic supply of elite working dogs” and reduce reliance on European breeders. David Spirk, a former Defense Department chief data officer, serves as CEO.
Warhound has collected blood samples from top-performing military, police, and first responder dogs to clone them. Lamm says the company is gene-editing its first batch, mostly Belgian Malinois, some Labradors, and some shepherds. The first puppies are expected in early 2027.
Initial gene-editing will target common health conditions like hip dysplasia. Later, Lamm envisions incorporating olfactory receptor genes from wolves to “enhance” the dogs’ capabilities. Colossal Biosciences, known for its gene-edited wolf project, holds an ownership stake.
Warhound will equip its canines with “Anduril’s advanced cybernetic Augments, software, and battlefield situational awareness.” Lamm clarified that the plan is to supply tools like advanced body armor rather than embedding computers in dogs. Asked about dogs with lasers, he said, “I can’t comment on what Anduril plans.”
Luckey is not an owner and holds no equity in Warhound; Anduril also has no equity. Lamm sits on the board but will not be involved in day-to-day operations. Investors include In-Q-Tel, Sequoia Capital, and ARK Invest. The company plans to operate under guidance from the American Humane Society.
Lamm said he and Luckey worked on the project for over a year before taking it out of stealth. He recounted someone describing it as “the Captain America dog program with the Ironman tech program on top of it.” The mission, he added, is dog safety and performance plus improving the human handler and dog bond.
