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Foundation (formerly Foundation Robotics Labs or Foundation Future) is an American robotics company based in [[San Francisco]], [[California]], [[United States]], developing [[humanoid robot]]s for both industrial and military applications. Founded in April 2024 by Sankaet Pathak, Arjun Sethi, and Mike LeBlanc, Foundation is notable for producing the [[Phantom MK1]], one of the first humanoid robots built explicitly for combat use. The company has attracted attention for its rapid development timeline, dual-use (civilian and defense) strategy, and deployment of robots to the conflict in [[Ukraine]].
Foundation was co-founded in April 2024 by Sankaet Pathak (CEO), Arjun Sethi (CEO of [[Tribe Capital]]), and Mike LeBlanc (co-founder of Cobalt Robotics and a former [[United States Marine Corps|US Marine]]). Pathak was previously the CEO of Synapse Financial Technologies, a fintech company that ceased operations before he pivoted to robotics.[1]
The company launched with approximately $11 million in pre-seed capital backed by Tribe Capital and other early investors. After an additional raise in Q1 2025, Foundation's total funding reached approximately $21 million.[2]
In October 2025, Foundation unveiled the [[Phantom MK1]], a humanoid robot designed for combat, industrial work, and other high-risk applications. The company delivered its first production humanoid robot in just 13 months from founding.[3]
In February 2026, Foundation deployed two Phantom MK-1 humanoid robots to [[Ukraine]] for battlefield trials, according to co-founder Mike LeBlanc. This made the Phantom MK-1 one of the first humanoid robots tested in an active combat zone. The robots were intended for tasks such as reconnaissance, bomb disposal, and logistics support on the front lines.[4]
Foundation announced plans to deploy 40 robots in 2025, scale to 10,000 in 2026, and reach 50,000 humanoids by the end of 2027. The company was also reportedly seeking a $3 billion valuation for a new funding round.[5]
The [[Phantom MK1]] is Foundation's flagship humanoid robot.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 ft 9 in (175 cm) |
| Weight | 176 lbs (80 kg) |
| Upper Body DOF | 19 |
| Actuator Type | Proprietary cycloidal |
| Peak Torque | 160 Nm |
| Back-Drivability | Below 1 Nm |
| Walking Speed | 1.7 m/s |
| Payload Capacity | 44 lbs (20 kg) |
| Hands | Five-fingered |
| Vision | Camera-first system (no LiDAR) |
| AI | Large language model integration |
| Price | ~$150,000 per unit |
Foundation developed proprietary cycloidal actuators that deliver high torque (up to 160 Nm) while remaining back-drivable below 1 Newton-meter. This combination enables powerful movements for industrial tasks while maintaining safe compliance for human interaction.[3]
The Phantom MK1 uses a camera-first vision system, eschewing LiDAR in favor of purely camera-based perception. The vision system is powered by large language models, enabling natural language commands such as "pick that up" to translate into fluid whole-body motions.[3]
For military applications, the Phantom MK1 reportedly features ballistic armor and a stealth coating designed to reduce thermal signature. The robot can carry up to 20 kg of equipment, weapons, or supplies.[6]
Foundation holds approximately $10 million in government contracts (inherited from Boardwalk, a related entity). Defense applications include:[3]
Foundation has faced scrutiny on multiple fronts. Reports in 2024 questioned whether the company exaggerated claims about ties with [[General Motors]] during early fundraising efforts. Pathak's previous company, Synapse Financial Technologies, collapsed amid controversy, leading some investors and observers to approach Foundation with caution.[7]
The company's open embrace of military applications has also generated debate within the robotics community, where many companies explicitly avoid defense use cases. Foundation's deployment of robots to Ukraine further intensified this discussion.[4]