The state today unveiled a new, interisland microwave communications system for first responders aimed at making sure public safety and civil defense officials stay connected during emergencies.

The $32 million system is not yet completed, but currently links first responders from O'ahu to the parts of the Big Island.

Russ Saito, state comptroller, said the towers that make up the communications network can withstand hurricane-force winds.

Before the system was online, he said, first-responders and civil defense officials used a "hodgepodge" of towers and systems to communicate with each other.

The system was built with the help of the U.S. Coast Guard, and state and county funds.

In a news conference today, Coast Guard Rear Adm. Timothy Sullivan, commander of the U.S. Coast Guard maintenance and logistics command in the Pacific, said the network is a "huge step forward" and will allow first responders to better respond during emergencies.

"Having this capability is a benefit that will only probably truly be realized at the worst of times," he added.

The system will be finished in 2011, at which point it will connect first responders on all islands.