Abstract: An improved digital radio communication apparatus and method for communicating in a satellite-supported VSAT network consisting of a plurality of VSAT member stations and at least one central station or hub. Both the apparatus and method concern VSAT systems performing voice, video and data communication in meshed networks comprising at least one central station or hub and VSAT stations via a satellite. The hub sends its information via at least one of its earth stations to the VSAT stations and receives at other frequencies the messages sent by the VSAT stations. Transmission frequencies and allowable overall bit rates are established by the hub as a function of the propagation conditions prevailing on the individual satellite paths. Member traffic is classified as time-critical traffic (ZKV) or non-time-critical traffic (ZUV).