Palmer Luckey, the billionaire founder of defense tech firm Anduril, argues that AI-powered autonomous weapons will redefine modern warfare. In a recent 60 Minutes interview updated on August 24, 2025, he explained how these systems could shift the U.S. from global policing to supplying advanced arms to allies.
Luckey’s Rise from VR Pioneer to Defense Innovator
Luckey first gained fame by creating Oculus, a virtual reality company he sold to Facebook for $2 billion in 2014 at age 21. After leaving Facebook in 2017 amid controversy over his political views, he founded Anduril that same year.
His goal was to challenge the old guard in defense contracting. Traditional firms like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman often rely on government-funded development, leading to delays and high costs. Luckey flipped this model by investing his own money to build ready-to-use products.
Today, Anduril employs over 2,000 people and operates from a massive headquarters in Costa Mesa, California. The company has grown rapidly, securing contracts worth billions.
Luckey’s personal style stands out. He often wears flip-flops and Hawaiian shirts, a far cry from typical military executives. Yet his vision draws from science fiction and real-world needs, inspired by his childhood tinkering with electronics in Long Beach.
Anduril’s Cutting-Edge AI Weapons
Anduril develops a range of autonomous systems powered by artificial intelligence. These tools aim to make warfare more efficient and less risky for humans.
One key product is the Roadrunner drone. This jet-powered interceptor launches vertically, identifies threats, and strikes if needed. If no target appears, it returns for reuse.
Another is the Dive XL submarine, about the size of a school bus. It operates without human input, traveling up to 1,000 miles underwater for missions like surveillance or tracking enemy vessels.
The company also makes advanced headsets for soldiers, offering 360-degree views in combat. Plus, there’s an electromagnetic warfare system that jams drone swarms.
All these connect through Lattice, Anduril’s AI platform. It gathers data from sensors, satellites, and more to enable fast decisions.
Here’s a quick look at some Anduril products in action:
- Roadrunner Drone: Used in tests to counter aerial threats, with reusable design cutting costs.
- Dive XL Submarine: Australia invested $58 million for defense against potential Chinese incursions.
- Electromagnetic System: Deployed to disrupt enemy communications in real-time scenarios.
Why Luckey Pushes for Autonomous Systems
Luckey believes AI weapons are essential for U.S. security in a world facing threats from China, Russia, and Iran. He points out that current U.S. systems lag behind consumer tech, like how a Tesla has better AI than many military aircraft.
Autonomous weapons reduce the need for human operators, allowing one person to control fleets of drones or vehicles. This cuts risks to American lives and boosts efficiency.
In Ukraine, Anduril’s systems have already made an impact. Luckey noted that his company’s tech arrived early in the 2022 invasion and has destroyed Russian assets worth hundreds of millions.
He argues these tools deter aggression by making attacks too costly. Luckey calls for arming allies to create “prickly porcupines” that enemies avoid.
Recent war games suggest the U.S. could run out of munitions in just eight days against China. Luckey sees Anduril filling that gap with mass-produced, affordable weapons.
| Aspect | Traditional Defense | Anduril Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Development Funding | Government pays upfront, often with overruns | Company invests own money, delivers finished products |
| Timeline | Years or decades with delays | Faster rollout, products ready in months |
| Cost | High, due to custom builds | Lower, through reusable and scalable tech |
| Autonomy Level | Mostly human-operated | AI-driven, minimal human input |
| Examples | Legacy jets and missiles | Roadrunner drone, Fury jet |
Addressing Fears of Killer Robots
Critics, including the United Nations, label autonomous weapons as morally wrong. They worry about AI going rogue or making deadly errors without human oversight.
Luckey counters that “smart” weapons are better than “dumb” ones like landmines, which can’t distinguish targets. All Anduril systems include a human kill switch for intervention.
He dismisses fears of AI rebellion, saying evil people with basic tech pose bigger threats. Luckey stresses that deterrence through strength promotes peace.
International groups push for bans, but Luckey argues disarmament leaves the U.S. vulnerable. He compares it to arming NATO with slingshots against advanced foes.
In a 2025 TED talk, Luckey expanded on this, saying AI in warfare is inevitable and the U.S. must lead to stay ahead of rivals like China.
Global Impact and Business Growth
Anduril’s reach extends beyond the U.S. The company has contracts in Australia and supports Ukraine’s defense. By year’s end, it expects over $6 billion in global deals.
Luckey visited Taiwan in 2025 to advocate for tech-driven defenses against Chinese threats. This aligns with rising geopolitical tensions in the region.
The firm recently unveiled Fury, an unmanned fighter jet set for test flights this summer. It beat out major contractors for an Air Force project, proving Anduril’s edge.
Experts note Anduril’s success disrupts the industry, forcing primes to innovate. With valuations soaring, the company eyes mass production to meet future demands.
Looking Ahead in AI Warfare
As warfare evolves, Luckey’s vision positions Anduril at the forefront. He predicts AI will turn soldiers into “technomancers” commanding digital realms alongside physical ones.
Yet challenges remain, from ethical debates to ensuring AI reliability. Luckey remains optimistic, betting on tech to secure peace.
What do you think about AI in warfare? Share your views in the comments and pass this article to friends for discussion.
