A Russian defense official is reported as saying that three Syrian attack helicopters that have been refurbished in Russia will be sent to Syria.

Last week, a cargo ship carrying the helicopters to Syria was forced to turn back after its British insurer removed the coverage for the vessel.

Alexander Fomin, the Russian defense official, was quoted by the Ria Novosti news agency as saying Thursday that Russia plans to deliver the helicopters, without specifying how or when.

Russia has said that the helicopters had been supplied to Syria during Soviet times and refurbished under a 2008 contract.

Moscow has continued to provide Damascus with arms, despite Western calls for a halt in supplies.