$200 million raised to clone gene-edited dogs for the US military

Warhound has secured $200 million in funding to genetically engineer dogs for the United States military. The startup is a joint venture involving Ben Lamm of Colossal Biosciences and Palmer Luckey of Anduril. The company’s primary goal is to breed animals with enhanced traits and equip them with advanced protective gear.

The team has already begun editing genes in cell samples taken from its first group of donor dogs. These samples were sourced from top-performing military, police, and first responder dogs across the country. The donors are mostly Belgian Malinois, with some labradors and shepherds included in the pool.

Initial research will focus on reducing the likelihood of breed-specific health issues. Scientists aim to lower the odds of hip dysplasia and certain cancers. Lamm told TechCrunch that future genetic modifications could make the animals faster and more agile, or sharpen their sense of smell.

Anduril will handle the equipment side of the program. The company will design tools and software intended to protect the dogs while they work. This includes goggles, vests, and body armor. Warhound is not currently planning to create cyborg dogs, according to the available details.

The ownership structure differs from the public partnership. Luckey is a partner but does not hold a stake in the startup. Neither does Anduril. Colossal Biosciences holds equity, and Lamm sits on the board. David Spirk, who most recently worked at Palantir, serves as CEO.

The founders bring high-profile backgrounds to the project. Luckey 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. It recently won a US Army contract to build the service's next-generation battlefield intelligence system alongside Palantir. Lamm’s Colossal Biosciences has led several de-extinction efforts, including one that claims to have revived the dire wolf and another seeking to bring back the woolly mammoth.

Warhound expects the first batch of its genetically engineered dogs to be born in early 2027. These animals will be trained for roles already performed by working dogs, such as detecting bombs and assisting in search-and-rescue operations.