CAIRO: Egypt's army chief headed to Russia on his first trip abroad since his ouster of the Islamist president, amid reports of a Gulf-funded $2 billion arms deal in the making with Moscow that would significantly expand Russia's military influence with a key US ally in the Middle East.

The trip by Field Marshal Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi also boosts an image of international clout for the military commander, who is widely expected to announce his candidacy to run for president in elections next year. The military issued a photo of el-Sissi on his way to board the plane for Moscow in civilian clothes — a blue blazer and tie — a rare picture of him out of uniform.

The high-profile visit to Russia comes at a time when Egypt's relations have soured with its longtime ally and military patron, the United States, over el-Sissi's removal of President Mohammed Morsi.

According to the state-owned daily Al-Ahram, el-Sissi is to conclude a $2 billion arms deal funded mainly by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Gen Hossam Sweilam, a retired Egyptian army general who maintains close contact with the military, also said the deal would be finalised in Moscow. Military officials declined to comment.

In November, Russia's Interfax news agency said that Egypt has shown interest in purchasing Russian air defence missile systems and MiG-29 fighter jets, combat helicopters and other weapons.—AP