The Fastlatch-class defense droid was a model of security droid developed by the Trade Federation and made illegal in most star systems.
The Fastlatch model was a squat, self-activating droid consisting of a domed, clamshell body suspended by four pincer-like legs. It had twin photoreceptors bracketing a single, central blaster cannon, and an antenna protruding from the upper dome. These droids were known to become more aggressive towards targets the nearer the enemy got to the source of their programming. Though self-activated, the droids could be programmed to avoid attacking beings who carried repellent signal emitters.
A commercial-grade security droid developed by the Trade Federation, the Fastlatch-class defense droid was outlawed in most star systems.
In the year 38 BBY, a group of pressure pirates smuggled Fastlatch-class droids aboard the Aurorient Express. Jedi Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi destroyed several on its hull while attempting to gain entry to the vessel, which was falling through the atmosphere of the gas giant Yorn Skot. More Fastlatch droids were brought on board by Waverton, in league with a band of pressure pirates, as part of a scheduled cargo lot.
Clode Rhoden also had a larger version of the security droid specially developed to defend against Jedi Knights. It was fitted with cortosis armor. Qui-Gon managed to reach Rhoden, and forced him to shut the droid down.
- The Complete Star Wars Encyclopedia