University of Hawaiʻi, Ocean Networks launch HIFL submarine cable project

The University of Hawaiʻi (UH) and Ocean Networks, Inc. (ONI) have announced a transformative $120 million public-private partnership to construct the Hawaiian Islands Fiber Link (HIFL). This submarine optical fiber cable system is set to connect the Hawaiian Islands, significantly improving and expanding high-speed broadband internet across the state. The HIFL initiative is a crucial component of Connect Kākou, Hawaiʻi’s state broadband initiative, endorsed by Governor Josh Green and under the leadership of Lt. Governor Sylvia Luke.

Governor Green highlighted the significance of this project: “This inter-island cable system will leverage the once-in-a-generation federal investment for technological infrastructure, and position our state for long-term economic growth.” The governor emphasized that the network will be open to all carriers, supporting a wide range of telecommunications needs, including healthcare, education, research, public service, commerce, and government.

Ocean Networks will oversee the supply, construction, operations, and maintenance of the inter-island cable system. The project will be partially funded through a federal grant, with Ocean Networks securing the remaining funds through private equity and secured debt. HIFL, expected to go online in late 2026, promises high data processing volume with minimal delay and will serve as the backbone of Connect Kākou.

HIFL submarine cable project : A Major Step in Hawaiʻi’s Connect Kākou Broadband Initiative by University of Hawaiʻi and Ocean Networks

Lt. Governor Luke added, “Connect Kākou has over $500 million in federal grants, state funds, and private matching funds available as we work towards connecting the unconnected and ensuring accessible high-speed internet for all.”

HIFL will be a carrier-neutral, open-access system, featuring landing sites on multiple islands, including Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi, Maui, Kauaʻi, Lānaʻi, and Molokaʻi. It will consist of 24 fiber pairs with a design life of 25 years, significantly improving inter-island and regional connectivity.

The project, overseen by the UH System Office for Information Technology and supported by the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaiʻi, represents a major leap in Hawaiʻi’s digital infrastructure.

Garret Yoshimi, UH Vice President for Information Technology and CIO, expressed excitement about the partnership: “It’s an honor for UH to play an important role in connecting Hawaiʻi to the future.”

Cliff Miyake, VP Business Development at Ocean Networks, Inc., echoed this sentiment: “The HIFL system will provide critical improvement to the broadband infrastructure for the State of Hawaiʻi.”

The HIFL project, a collaboration between the University of Hawaiʻi and Ocean Networks, marks a pivotal advancement in Hawaiʻi’s digital landscape. This initiative is not only a significant technological achievement but also a model for public-private partnerships in enhancing statewide digital connectivity. By creating a robust and accessible broadband network, the HIFL project aligns with the broader goal of digital inclusivity, contributing to Hawaiʻi’s economic growth and technological progress.