The Fastlatch-class defense droid represented a security droid design, originating from the Trade Federation, but its use was prohibited across the majority of star systems.
This Fastlatch variant was a compact, autonomously operating droid. Its design featured a domed, clamshell-shaped body supported by four legs resembling pincers. Two photoreceptors flanked a single, centrally positioned blaster cannon, accompanied by an antenna extending from the top of the dome. These particular droids were known for exhibiting escalated aggression towards targets as the enemy drew closer to the source of their programming. Although they activated automatically, these droids could be programmed to refrain from attacking individuals carrying signal emitters that acted as repellents.
This commercial-grade security droid, created by the Trade Federation, known as the Fastlatch-class defense droid, faced a ban in most star systems.
In the year of 38 BBY, a group of individuals known as pressure pirates smuggled Fastlatch-class droids onto the Aurorient Express. Jedi Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi destroyed several of these droids on the exterior of the vessel as they tried to board it. At the time, the vessel was plummeting through the atmosphere of the gas giant Yorn Skot. Further Fastlatch droids were introduced onto the vessel by Waverton, who was collaborating with a group of pressure pirates, disguised as part of a scheduled cargo shipment.
Clode Rhoden also commissioned the development of a larger version of this security droid, specifically designed to defend against Jedi Knights. This enhanced model was equipped with cortosis armor. Qui-Gon ultimately confronted Rhoden, compelling him to deactivate the droid.