The Australian Government has launched the terms of a review that aims to enhancing the repair and management of the navy’s six Collins Class submarines.

In a statement, Minister for Defence Stephen Smith and Minister for Defence Materiel Jason Clare said that the review would involve a detailed assessment of complex engineering issues related to submarine sustainment.

“The sustainment of the submarine fleet is vital to Australia’s national security. Sustainment of the Collins Class submarines is at the top of the government’s projects of concern list,” they added.

According to media reports, the Collins submarines have suffered from breakdowns and maintenance, which have limited their operational capabilities.