Hepter, identified as Ro-Tor in certain continuities, transforms into a Kaman Aerospace SH-2G Super Seasprite helicopter. As a member of the Decepticon Commandos' aerial forces alongside Movor, he displays a consistently arrogant and sneering demeanor, habitually looking down on others both literally and figuratively. He relishes verbally taunting ground-based Autobots and launching surprise attacks, exploiting near-silent flight for ambushes. In combat, Hepter utilizes plasma fire and specialized rotor-based weaponry: the detachable rotor on his back functions as a large shuriken, while the blade on his right arm serves as a close-combat cutting weapon; these are designated "sting blades."

Originally an Autobot protoform under Scourge, his ship crashed on Earth. Predacons under Megatron discovered the wreckage. Megatron scanned an Earth helicopter for Hepter's alternate mode and infused him with dark energon, forcibly reprogramming him into a Decepticon. This allegiance shift bound him to Megatron's faction, though he retained a strong sense of superiority, often implying he was his unit's only competent member.

Hepter frequently participates in combined operations with the Decepticon Commandos, merging with Armorhide, Mega-Octane, Movor, and Rollbar to form the larger entity Ruination (Baldigus in Japanese media). This combination typically occurs during major battles against Autobot combiners like Rail Racer or formidable opponents such as Ultra Magnus and Omega Prime. Despite his arrogance, Hepter follows the commands of leaders like Scourge and later Galvatron, undertaking missions targeting energy sources, infrastructure like dams and power stations, and the Orb of Sigma. His combat engagements span diverse environments, including urban centers, subterranean ruins, and desert temples.

During downtime, Hepter prefers relaxation in elevated, open-air environments, notably enjoying hot baths with scenic views. His operational history includes being washed away in flooded tunnels during a Metro City subway confrontation and suffering multiple defeats necessitating retreats, particularly against Omega Prime and Fortress Maximus's defense systems. Under Galvatron's rule, Hepter underwent forced reprogramming for absolute obedience, placing him under Sky-Byte's command during the final assault on Autobot headquarters. Following Galvatron's defeat at Earth's core, Hepter was detained and transported to an asteroid prison colony.