Jerusalem, 11 November, 2026 (TPS-IL) — An American robotics startup backed by Eric Trump is in talks with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to supply up to 1,000 humanoid robots for operations in Hamas tunnels beneath Gaza, according to media reports Wednesday.
Foundation Future Industries President and co-founder Mike LeBlanc said the company’s Phantom MK1 robots could patrol tunnels, detect tripwires and neutralize booby traps, with potential combat capabilities. LeBlanc visited Gaza tunnels with a robot in September and said he has held direct discussions with the IDF chief of staff.
Founded in 2024, Foundation Future Industries has received more than $70 million in U.S. military contracts and funding. Eric Trump, an early investor, became its chief strategic adviser in March.
The discussions have not resulted in a confirmed contract, and Israel has not publicly verified the negotiations.