H . A . R . A .
We have successfully completed controlled indoor testing of H.A.R.A. Mk 1 (Hyper Amplification Radiant Array) our first directed-energy weapon prototype. This milestone represents a transition from long-running research and internal experimentation into a tangible, working system, built entirely in-house.
H.A.R.A. Mk 1 is an early 10 kW-class prototype designed to explore scalable high-energy laser architectures. While technical specifics remain deliberately undisclosed, the tests validate key assumptions around beam control, stability, thermal handling, and system-level integration under tightly controlled conditions.
From Manufacturing Lasers to Energy Systems
Carbine Systems began as an advanced manufacturing and aerospace & defence engineering company, focused on high-energy laser-based additive manufacturing. Our work revolved around mastering laser–matter interaction at extreme conditions developing processes aimed at defect-free parts, controlled microstructures, and thermally resilient components for demanding applications.
That work required deep engagement with electro-optics, beam stability, thermal management, sensing, and control. Over time, this technical stack evolved beyond manufacturing alone. H.A.R.A. Mk 1 is a direct outcome of that progression an application of manufacturing-grade laser science to weapon-class energy systems.
From Concept to Prototype
For several years, the case for indigenously developed directed-energy systems existed largely on paper and in simulations. In 2025, shifting regional realities and the increasing visibility of asymmetric aerial threats accelerated our internal decision-making. Rather than wait for alignment or sponsorship, we focused on execution.
In the first week of 2026, we conducted static indoor tests of H.A.R.A. Mk 1, engaging multiple target objects in a controlled environment. These tests were not intended as demonstrations, but as validation confirming that the underlying architecture works as intended when translated into hardware.
Looking Beyond Mk 1
H.A.R.A. Mk 1 is not a product announcement. It is a technical waypoint.
Our long-term work spans laser platforms that extend well beyond a single prototype systems that intersect defence, advanced manufacturing, and fundamental research. This includes exploration of significantly higher-power architectures and laser technologies that are typically confined to large institutional programs.
Signals That Matter
- Built, not funded : H.A.R.A. Mk 1 was developed without external institutional or venture funding, relying instead on in-house capability and disciplined execution.
- Intentional geography : Our laser R&D efforts are being anchored in Belagavi, Karnataka reflecting a long-term commitment to building deep industrial capability rather than short-term visibility.
- Execution over narrative : We chose to build first and speak later. In this domain, working hardware matters more than presentations.
Why This Matters
H.A.R.A. Mk 1 represents more than a prototype. It reflects a broader shift:
- Directed-energy systems are no longer theoretical within India’s private deep-tech ecosystem
- Advanced manufacturing, photonics, and defence research are converging into a single capability stack
- Execution-driven teams can now operate in domains once reserved for state-only programs
- The future of defence innovation may be quieter than expected but it is being built, deliberately and methodically.
We will share more when the technology, not the timeline, demands it.