HK-81 has developed an obsessive personality centered around the concept of self-improvement. HK-81 truly believes itself to be superior to any other HK-model Gladiator Droid and capable of accomplishing great feats. This drive aids it in accomplishing its tasks, but sometimes will result in unexpected additional outcomes.

HK-81 has had its sensor suites upgraded to significantly increase their range and sensitivity, allowing this HK-model Gladiator Droid to collect and record a wide range of data during scouting operations. These sensors are far more sensitive to jamming interferance and are more prone to damage.

This HK-model Gladiator Droid has been reinforced with an advanced layer of additional armor plating, providing HK-81 much more durability compared to a standard HK-model Gladiator Droid.

HK-81 has had every external component painted black as night, with attempts to minimize the brightness of external lights and features. This allows this HK-model Gladiator Droid to more easily blend into the shadows and darkness unseen.

This HK-model Gladiator Droid has been augmented with an advanced targeting system, allowing HK-81 to track and acquire targets at a much greater proficiency than a standard HK-model Gladiator Droid.