Warhound Launches with $200 Million to Develop Genetically Modified Military Dogs
Warhound launched with $200 million in funding at a $1.2 billion valuation to develop genetically modified military dogs, with participation from Sequoia, In-Q-Tel, and Anduril to equip them.
American company Warhound has emerged from stealth with $200 million in funding at a $1.2 billion valuation to develop genetically modified military dogs for the US military, law enforcement agencies, and emergency response teams, according to TechCrunch.
The concept was launched by Ben Lamm of Colossal Biosciences and Palmer Luckey of Anduril, and is led by CEO David Spirk. Investors participating in the round included Sequoia, 8VC, Corner Ventures, In-Q-Tel, ARK Invest, and Franklin Templeton.
The company states that over 80% of US military working dogs originate from Europe, and fewer than half qualify for service. It seeks to engineer dogs capable of enduring demanding tasks such as explosives detection, search operations, and specialized missions.
No dogs have been born yet, as the first batch is preparing for cloning and gestation, with births expected early next year and entry into service within about two years. Meanwhile, Anduril will provide software and equipment such as protective vests and goggles to assist the dogs and their handlers.
What Do These Terms Mean?
Seed Round: Early-stage funding that helps a company build its initial product and validate its concept before larger rounds.
Genetic Modification: An alteration in an organism's genes aimed at adding a specific trait or removing another.
Cloning: The production of an identical genetic copy of an organism using its cells.
Valuation: The estimated market value of a company set by investors when injecting new capital.
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