Warhound launched with $200 million in funding to genetically engineer and clone working dogs for military and emergency use.
The initiative combines cell-line gene editing from Colossal with hardware and software integration from Anduril.
The funding brings the company's value to $1,2 billion, with investors including Sequoia, 8VC and In-Q-Tel. Behind the founding are Ben Lamm of genetics company Colossal Biosciences and Palmer Luckey, co-founder of defense technology company Anduril.
Why the company wants to change working dogs
According to the company's data, over 80% of the working dogs used by the United States military come from Europe, while less than half are ultimately deemed suitable for service.
Warhound plans to take cells from top working dog breeds, such as the German Shepherd and the Malinois, and edit their genes, a process that aims to improve the animals' health and physical abilities.
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Technology and equipment
Anduril will provide software and equipment, such as protective vests with data sensors and special glasses for the animals.
Colossal's Viagen is working with Warhound to help clone the dogs. The first batch of these animals is expected to be born early next year and enter service within two years.
Warhound also works with the American Humane Society to certify its animal training program.
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