Warhound raises US$200 million to develop genetically engineered military dogs
The startup expects its first dogs in early 2027, with Anduril set to develop protective equipment and supporting software.
A startup backed by Colossal Biosciences has raised US$200 million for a project aimed at producing genetically engineered dogs for the US military. Called Warhound, the venture brings together Colossal’s Ben Lamm and Anduril’s Palmer Luckey.
Lamm told Wired that gene editing had begun on cells collected from an initial group of donor dogs. The samples came from high-performing US military, police and first responder dogs, mainly Belgian Malinois, alongside some labradors and shepherds. The plan is to clone dogs using cells modified by Colossal scientists.
The initial research will target susceptibility to breed-associated conditions, including certain cancers and hip dysplasia. Lamm told TechCrunch that later modifications could potentially improve speed, agility or the dogs’ ability to smell.
Anduril will develop equipment such as goggles, vests and protective armor, together with software for those tools. Luckey is a partner in Warhound, although neither he nor Anduril holds equity. Colossal has an ownership stake, and Lamm sits on the board. David Spirk, whose most recent role was at Palantir, is CEO.
Warhound anticipates the birth of its first genetically engineered dogs in early 2027. Training will cover working-dog duties, including bomb detection and search-and-rescue work.
