Palmer Luckey and Ben Lamm Launch Warhound, a Gene-Edited Military Dog Startup
Warhound, a startup based in Texas, has secured $200 million to develop genetically modified working dogs intended for the U.S. military, law enforcement, and emergency services. The company, founded by Palmer Luckey of Anduril and Ben Lamm of Colossal Biosciences, has recently come out of stealth mode. Leading the initiative is CEO David Spirk, a former chief data officer at the Department of Defense. Notable investors include In-Q-Tel, Sequoia Capital, and ARK Invest. Warhound is currently gene-editing its first group of dogs, mainly Belgian Malinois, with puppies anticipated in early 2027. The focus will be on addressing health issues such as hip dysplasia, while the dogs will incorporate Anduril's cybernetic Augments without becoming cyborgs. The company seeks to lessen dependence on European breeders.
Key facts
- Warhound launched with $200 million in funding
- Founders are Palmer Luckey of Anduril and Colossal Biosciences cofounder Ben Lamm
- David Spirk, former Department of Defense chief data officer, is chief executive
- Investors include In-Q-Tel, Sequoia Capital, and ARK Invest
- First gene-edited puppies are expected in early 2027
- Breeds will be mostly Belgian Malinois, some Labradors, and some shepherds
- Initial editing targets conditions such as hip dysplasia
- The company is based in Texas and plans to operate under the guidance of the American Humane Society
Entities
Artists
- Palmer Luckey
- Ben Lamm
- David Spirk
Institutions
- Warhound
- Anduril
- Colossal Biosciences
- Palantir
- Department of Defense
- In-Q-Tel
- Sequoia Capital
- ARK Invest
- American Humane Society
- WIRED
Locations
- Texas
- United States
- Europe