Q9-X2 was a droid belonging to the Q9-series astromech droid line. Constructed as an experimental model by Industrial Automaton, Q9-X2 possessed a remarkable personality, quite similar to that of R2-D2. This characteristic resulted in him implementing numerous self-modifications, which included the addition of repulsorlifts and a vocabulator, granting him the unusual ability to speak Basic, a rare trait for astromech droids. Even with all the personal improvements, he still felt there was more to be done. During the events of the Corellian Insurrection in 18 ABY, Q9-X2 was in the service of Ebrihim, and his contributions were instrumental in resolving the crisis.
The design of the Q9 series was based upon the R7 series. These droids were highly intricate, designed for a wide range of tasks, and were equipped with advanced analytical and data retrieval capabilities. However, this complexity proved to be the downfall of the line, leading to frequent system failures and expensive repairs when the droid was subjected to stress. Q9-X2, however, stood out as one of the few successful models from this series.
Q9 was equipped with a sophisticated personality matrix, resulting in a distinctive personality unlike most droids. This also motivated him to undertake numerous modifications, all in an effort to further enhance his capabilities. Q9-X2 installed low-power repulsor pads, enabling him to hover over obstacles, and a vocoder, which allowed him to communicate in Basic. The ability to speak in a language other than binary was an uncommon feature for astromech droids, making this his most significant alteration. Despite these extensive modifications, Q9-X2 remained convinced that more improvements were necessary. Subsequently, he incorporated a sophisticated detection suite, featuring a molecular backtrack sniffer, a residual heat-trend directionalizer, and retractable sensor wands.
Furthermore, he integrated a potent forward-facing floodlight and an additional pair of lamps that could be folded into the sides of his cylindrical body. Q9-X2 also incorporated a high-tech photography system into his front section, believing that his holographic projector was insufficient for capturing clear images. The pictures taken by the droid were then produced through a printout slot. He also upgraded his sensor array when Ebrihim began tutoring the Solo children.
In addition to the modifications made by Q9-X2, he also possessed the standard "factory-installed" astromech equipment provided by Industrial Automaton. This included a retractable grasper arm, an arc welder, and a fire extinguisher. Despite these additions, Q9 still felt that further enhancements were required.
Ebrihim, a Drall, acquired the droid. During Leia Organa Solo's visit to Corellia in 18 ABY, Ebrihim became the tutor for the Solo children, Jacen, Jaina, and Anakin. He brought his droid, which fascinated the children when they discovered Q9's ability to speak. After rebels under the command of Thrackan Sal-Solo trapped the children's parents in a building, Q9, Chewbacca, and Ebrihim set off for Drall, where they encountered Ebrihim's aunt, Marcha. On Drall, Anakin Solo, who had a talent for machinery, discovered a strange device sought by beings from all of the Five Brothers planets. Upon activating the device, Q9 was inadvertently thrown into a garbage chute. The droid managed to save himself by activating his repulsors and flying out of the opening.
Subsequently, the group (comprising the children, Chewie, Ebrihim, his aunt, and Q9) sought refuge at the Drall repulsor, concealing themselves within the massive chamber. However, Thrackan discovered their hiding place and captured them, although the children, aided by Q9, managed to escape in the Millennium Falcon. Thrackan pursued them in an assault gunboat, but the children outmaneuvered him and were rescued by New Republic forces, who apprehended Thrackan. The remaining prisoners were then freed. Anakin reactivated the repulsor, using it to disable Centerpoint Station, which the Sacorrian Triad was using to destroy planets. The Corellian Insurrection concluded, with Q9-X2 playing a significant role in supporting the New Republic.
In 25 ABY, during the Yuuzhan Vong War, the New Republic prepared to utilize Centerpoint, summoning Anakin. Anakin, accompanied by his brother Jacen, arrived at the station, where they found Q9 and Ebrihim. The two cautioned against firing the station, but their warnings were disregarded when Thrackan Sal-Solo, now free, fired the station upon the Yuuzhan Vong, resulting in significant casualties but also devastating the Hapan fleet that had been dispatched to assist the New Republic.
Q9-X2 displayed sarcasm, frequently showcasing his wit and directing insults towards others. His owner, Ebrihim, found this behavior somewhat irritating, although he tolerated it. Despite his tendency to insult, the droid was devoted to his master, a quality he demonstrated during the Corellian Insurrection. Q9 believed that typical astromech droids were ill-equipped for tasks beyond piloting a starship.