MOSCOW - A news agency has quoted a senior Russian admiral as saying that Russian submarines could help claim and protect resources in the disputed Arctic region.

RIA Novosti is quoting Vice Adm. Oleg Burtsev as saying Monday that submarines of Russia's Northern Fleet could be involved in efforts to stake Russia's claim to the polar region.

The Arctic is believed to contain huge oil and gas reserves. Russia, the United States, Canada and other northern countries are trying to assert jurisdiction over the region.

In 2007, two Russian civilian mini-submarines descended to the Arctic seabed to collect geologic samples and drop a titanium canister containing the Russian flag. Officials have said other missions are planned to help support Russia's claim to the region.