Russian security officials say they have detained a Chinese interpreter who was allegedly trying to gain access to sensitive Russian missile technology.

The Federal Security Service said Wednesday the arrest was made in October of last year, but it did not explain why it took so long to report the incident.

The announcement comes a week before Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin begins a two-day visit to China as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral ties.

Russian authorities say an investigation found that a Chinese man posing as an interpreter for official delegations tried to obtain documents from Russian citizens on Moscow's

S-300 missile system. The suspect allegedly offered to pay for the information.

Officials say prosecutors have forwarded his case to a Moscow city court.