Warhound Secures $200M to Clone Elite Military Canines

Warhound has closed a $200 million funding round to begin the commercial production of gene-edited dogs for the United States military. The capital will support the cloning of top-performing service animals and the development of specialized protective gear. This move positions the startup at the intersection of biotechnology and defense contracting.

The company was established as a joint effort involving Ben Lamm of Colossal Biosciences and Palmer Luckey of Anduril. Lamm confirmed to Wired that genetic editing has already begun on cell samples from the first group of donor dogs. These donors were selected from high-performing military, police, and first responder units across the country. The breed mix is primarily Belgian Malinois, with a smaller number of labradors and shepherds. Colossal Biosciences scientists will modify the genomes before initiating the cloning process.

The initial research phase focuses on reducing the incidence of breed-specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia and certain cancers. Lamm indicated to TechCrunch that future enhancements could improve physical traits. Potential modifications include increased speed, agility, and a sharper sense of smell. This phased approach allows the company to validate basic health improvements before pursuing performance upgrades.

The leadership team brings significant experience in both tech and defense sectors. Luckey, who founded Oculus VR, leads Anduril, a firm that recently won a US Army contract for next-generation battlefield intelligence systems with Palantir. His company also partnered with OpenAI in 2024 to develop AI for the Pentagon. Lamm’s Colossal Biosciences is known for de-extinction projects, including efforts to revive the dire wolf and woolly mammoth. David Spirk, formerly of Palantir, serves as CEO of Warhound.

The corporate structure separates the biological and technological components of the business. Anduril and Luckey are partners but do not hold equity in the startup. Colossal Biosciences owns a stake, and Lamm sits on the board. Anduril will focus on designing the equipment and software that protects the dogs during operations. This includes goggles, vests, and body armor, rather than creating cyborg hybrids.

Warhound expects the first batch of genetically engineered dogs to be born in early 2027. These animals will undergo training for standard service roles, such as bomb detection and search-and-rescue operations. The timing aligns with broader defense spending trends and the military’s desire for more resilient and durable working animals. The startup’s success will depend on its ability to deliver healthy, high-performing dogs at scale.