IG-227 Hailfire-class droid tank

The IG-227 Hailfire-class droid tank, commonly known as the Hailfire Droid, is one of the most distinguishable war machines in the Star Wars universe. This unmanned ground vehicle was developed and manufactured by the InterGalactic Banking Clan’s manufacturing arm, Haor Chall Engineering. Its notable appearance features large oversized wheels and a slim central body, filled with rows of deadly missiles, giving it an exceptional combination of speed, maneuverability, and firepower.

The Hailfire Droid measures approximately 8.5 meters in height (including the antennas), with a wheel diameter of 3.25 meters. Its notable design features two enormous hoop-like wheels, providing it with the capability to reach high speeds up to 50 mph on an array of uneven surfaces. The wheels were not just for mobility but they also provided protective shielding for the center body of the droid due to their reinforced armor.

The primary combat capability comes from the 15 missile launchers that bracket the body of the Hailfire Droid, one on each side. Each missile is armed with high-explosive warheads and has an accurate guidance system that ensures they can hit their targets from great distances, giving the vehicle its name. In addition to this long-range armament, the Hailfire Droid also carries two medium anti-personnel laser cannons for close-quarters combat and self-defense.

The Hailfire Droid is an unmanned vehicle meaning it is entirely dependent on internal programming, and does not require infantry to operate. Its targeting and navigation systems are designed for high-speed tracking and pursuit, making it an efficient hunter of enemy forces. Its Artificial Intelligence guidance system allows it to operate autonomously, or as part of a networked droid force, making it highly adaptable and flexible in various kinds of warfare scenarios.

The IG-227 Hailfire-class droid tank saw extensive service in the Star Wars universe, most notably during the Battle of Geonosis in 'Episode II: Attack of the Clones', where they were utilized by the Confederacy of Independent Systems against the Galactic Republic. After the reformation of the Republic into the Galactic Empire, use of these droids became much less widespread, but they remained a symbol of the destructive capability that droid armies could achieve.