Palmer Luckey Advocates U.S. as "World's Gun Store," Not "World Police"

Tech entrepreneur Palmer Luckey, founder of Oculus VR and CEO of defense contractor Anduril Industries, recently articulated a non-interventionist stance on U.S. foreign policy, suggesting a shift from direct military engagement to a role as a global arms supplier. Speaking on the "Honestly with Bari Weiss" podcast, Luckey stated, "The United States cannot be in the position of sending our men and women abroad to die for other countries’ interests… We have to be the world’s gun store, and we need to be willing and able to provide everyone with the tools they need to defend themselves." This perspective aligns with previous statements made by Luckey, including during a recent appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast on October 16, 2025.

Luckey, known for his disruptive approach to technology and defense, has consistently argued against the U.S. acting as the "world police." His company, Anduril Industries, aims to provide advanced, autonomous defense systems to the U.S. and its allies, reflecting his belief that equipping partners with sophisticated tools can deter aggression more effectively than direct military intervention. This strategy emphasizes technological superiority and efficiency in defense, a core tenet of Anduril's business model.

The entrepreneur's vision for the U.S. as a "world's gun store" underscores a philosophy where American-made defense products are supplied globally, enabling allies to defend themselves without requiring U.S. troops on the ground. This approach seeks to reduce the human cost of foreign policy for the United States while bolstering the defense capabilities of partner nations. Luckey has previously highlighted the importance of a robust defense industrial base to meet global demand for such technologies.

Anduril Industries, founded by Luckey after selling Oculus to Facebook, has rapidly grown by developing AI-powered autonomous systems for military applications, including drones, counter-drone technology, and advanced surveillance. The company's focus on rapid prototyping and delivering working products aims to disrupt traditional defense procurement, which Luckey views as slow and inefficient. This business model is integral to his broader foreign policy recommendations, emphasizing readily available and effective defense solutions.

Luckey's comments contribute to an ongoing national debate about the future of U.S. foreign policy, particularly concerning military interventionism and the role of arms sales in international relations. His arguments resonate with some who advocate for a more restrained military footprint and greater reliance on technological deterrence and allied self-sufficiency. The discussion around these ideas continues to evolve as global geopolitical landscapes shift.