An experimental automated repair system has been installed on this BD-unit Backpack Droid, giving it an ability to perform or assist in the performance of self-diagnosis and self-repair of its mechanical systems. This system slows the droid while it assesses any necessary repairs when dealing with heavy damage, and can perform very basic tasks or actions while assessing necessary repairs.

BD-R3 "Beater" has had the vast majority of its external components painted a matte black finish. Several parts and access panels have been painted a deep royal purple as accents, and it's optical sensor color adjusted to match. While the dark coloration helps keep the droid difficult to see in low light conditions, once spotted, there can be no mistaking who the droid belongs to.

An advanced toolkit has been integrated into BD-R3 "Beater", allowing it to perform sophisticated and large-scale repairs on other droids or technology.

BD-R3 "Beater" has been through a lot. Originally an R3 astromech, R3-N3e was all but destroyed, their memory and personality matrix salvaged and placed within a rebuilt BT-1 blastromech chassis designated BT-R3. Obsessed with self-improvement and frustrated by the exchange of functionality for firepower, BD-R3 "Beater" became sarcastic and dark. Finally, transplanted into a BD-unit, BD-R3 "Beater" feels more like their helpful and competent selves again, less limited by their chassis. As a result, there's sparks of upbeat hopefulness mixed in with the dark sarcasm and advise on how to best apply violence efficiently.