Russia is looking to sign a series of contracts for the delivery of fighter jets and air-defense systems to Libya, a defense industry official said on Friday.

Vyacheslav Dzirkaln, deputy head of the Federal Service for Military and Technical Cooperation, said the contracts could be signed on January 26-27, when Libyan Defense Minister Maj. Gen. Younis Jaber visits Russia.

"We believe that the visit will not be purely political, but will also enable us to sign contracts for the delivery of arms and military equipment," Dzirkaln said.

"A large delegation will arrive, including specialists on air defense," he said. "Something should be signed."

He added that Russia had also offered Libya assistance in the modernization and maintenance of Soviet-made equipment, which was still in "good repair."

MANAMA (Bahrain), January 22 (RIA Novosti)