Updated

Russia will reportedly give a batch of 10 MiG-29 fighter jets to Lebanon as a gift, Reuters reported Wednesday.

Mikhail Dmitriyev, the head of Russia's Federal Military and Technical Cooperation Service, is also quoted as saying Moscow and Beirut are in talks on selling Lebanon armor for its ground forces.

"Russia's Defense Ministry has decided to supply 10 of its MiG-29 fighters to Lebanon as a form of military and technical assistance," Dmitriyev was quoted by Reuters.

The supplies will reportedly be made at the expense of Russia's Defense Ministry.

"We view the Lebanese army as the main guarantor of this nation's stability, therefore the armed forces of this country must be strengthened," Dmitriyev said.

Russia has sought to expand its clout in the Middle East and hopes to host a Mideast peace conference next year. It is a member of the so-called Quartet of Mideast peacemakers, which also includes the United States, the European Union and the United Nations.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.