Phantom, a humanoid robot developed by Foundation Robotics Labs, took the stage at Temple Nightclub for a 30-minute DJ set during “Tech GigaParty,” an AI trade expo and networking event.

Figure 1. Defense Robot Surprises Crowd with Nightclub DJ Performance: 'A Fun Moment.

Foundation Robotics Labs primarily focuses on developing robots for national defense and military applications, rather than nightclub DJ performances. The robotics startup serves clients such as auto manufacturers, warehouses, logistics firms, and the U.S. Department of Defense. Figure 1 shows Defense Robot Surprises Crowd with Nightclub DJ Performance: 'A Fun Moment.

Robots like Phantom are already being utilized by the U.S. military in non-combat roles, such as maintenance tasks and refueling aircraft in remote locations.

Foundation Robotics Labs is the only American company developing humanoid robots for national defense. Unlike other robotics firms that have pledged to avoid weaponizing robots or using them for military purposes, Foundation takes a different stance.

“We’re the opposite,” co-founder Mike LeBlanc told SFGATE. “We believe that humanoids are going to be critical to the future of warfare. Hence, designing robots that are bigger, faster, stronger.”

War Robot Turned DJ Performs 30-Minute Set at San Francisco Nightclub

In an effort to showcase the versatility of his robots, Foundation Robotics Labs co-founder Mike LeBlanc programmed one of the company’s military-grade humanoids to perform a 30-minute DJ set at Temple Nightclub in San Francisco. The event, dubbed the “Tech Giga Party,” was part of an AI trade expo.

By all accounts, Phantom delivered a solid performance, maintaining a steady beat and executing smooth track transitions without a single lull—though its first pumps were reportedly a little offbeat. Still, that’s arguably a better fate than having it use its immense robotic strength for more destructive purposes.

While Phantom’s nightclub debut turned heads, robots like it are already in use by the U.S. military—albeit in non-combat roles such as maintenance and refueling aircraft in remote locations. With its DJ skills now proven, perhaps Phantom’s next gig will be entertaining troops at a USO show—maybe even donning a flashy outfit to boost morale.

Ultimately, it’s difficult to see this DJ set as anything other than an attempt to soften the image of a company that may one day be known for building machines designed for warfare—machines that, for now, lift boxes and spin tracks at parties back home.

Humanoid Takes the Stage

Phantom MK1, the first humanoid robot developed by San Francisco-based startup Foundation Robotics Labs, made its public debut—not on the battlefield, but behind a DJ booth.

While the company primarily designs its humanoid robots for military operations, warehouse management, and automotive manufacturing, Phantom’s first public appearance highlighted a different capability: entertainment.

The robot took the spotlight during the "Tech GigaParty," an event that blended an AI trade show, networking opportunities, and a dance night at Temple Nightclub. Phantom performed a 30-minute DJ set before a human DJ took over, and according to SFGATE, the tech-savvy crowd responded with enthusiasm, embracing the futuristic spectacle of a robot DJ.

Military Robot Expansion

Foundation Robotics Labs has strengthened its capabilities with the acquisition of Boardwalk Robotics, a Florida-based company that introduced the humanoid robot.

Phantom MK1, Foundation’s military-focused humanoid, builds upon Alex’s design but takes it a step further. While Alex specialized in complex manipulation tasks from a stationary base, Phantom MK1 is designed for mobility and adaptability.

Standing 1.75 meters (5 feet 9 inches) tall and weighing 175 pounds (80 kg), Phantom MK1 can carry up to 20 kg (44 lbs) of cargo. Demonstration footage on Foundation’s website showcases the robot performing tasks in beverage and glass manufacturing industries.

Phantom MK1’s upper body houses its processors, cameras, batteries, and sensors, serving as its operational core. Its lower body, which was still in development when Foundation pitched to investors in 2024, features advanced actuators and balance systems, enabling it to navigate rough terrain and confined spaces.

Reference:

1. https://nypost.com/2025/02/18/lifestyle/war-robot-designed-for-defense-bizarrely-performs-dj-set-at-nightclub-a-fun-moment/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2. https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/humanoid-robot-ditches-war-to-dj

Cite this article:

Priyadharshini S (2025),”War Robot Designed for Defense Unexpectedly Performs DJ Set at Nightclub: 'A Fun Moment" , AnaTechmaz, pp.130