The turret droid functioned as a Trade Federation military asset, purposed for the defense of key strategic locations. Its design, which featured a weapons platform positioned atop three stilt-like legs, bears resemblance to the later Octuptarra combat tri-droid. Whether these legs provided a means of movement or were solely for stabilizing the turret once it was in position remains uncertain.
The Trade Federation made widespread use of turret droids during the Invasion of Naboo. They were deployed to protect Federation assets beyond the Naboo system, and to guard prison facilities within Naboo itself.
A T4 turret droid
A specialized turret droid model was designated to protect the atrium of the Theed Royal Palace. This variant rotated on a fixed, four-legged base and featured a single "eye" that emitted plasma waves. Additionally, it was equipped with a cannon on each side of its head capable of launching thermal detonators, and a personal energy shield akin to those used by Droidekas of the Trade Federation. Should the head-mounted cannons sustain damage, this turret droid could project a continuous laser beam from its "eye". During the Fall of Theed, this particular model was destroyed by the Jedi who had arrived to liberate Queen Amidala of Naboo.
During the Clone Wars era, Sia-Lan Wezz, Rorworr, alongside Vor'en Kurn engaged in combat against a mixed force comprised of turret droids and B1-series battle droids.