A hybrid ARQ retransmission method involves encoding data packets with a forward error correction (FEC) technique prior to transmission. The data packets are re-transmitted based on an automatic repeat request (ARQ) and subsequently soft-combined with previously received erroneous data packets either on a symbol-by-symbol or a bit-by-bit basis. The symbols of the erroneous data packets are modulated by employing a first signal constellation. The symbols of the re-transmitted data packets are modulated by employing at least a second signal constellation. Each symbol bit has a mean bit reliability defined by the individual bit reliabilities over all symbols of the predetermined signal constellation. The first constellation and the at least second signal constellation are selected such that the combined mean bit reliabilities for the respective bits of all transmissions are averaged out.