Russia's Navy spokesman Igor Dygalo told Sputnik International.

"This will be the first port call by a Russian military ship in the history of Russian-PNG relations."

But despite ringing declarations from Moscow and the reality of an armed ship on Australia's doorstep, the PNG Government said Canberra would welcome the move as publicity for APEC.

"Naturally, we have informed the Australians, our major security partner and close neighbour, and advised them of the nature of the visit," PNG's Foreign Minister Rimbink Pato said in a statement.

"As is usual with our friends and ally, the Australians welcome our attempts to draw attention to the forthcoming APEC summit."

The Australian Government said it was notified about the visit but that it was "a matter for the governments of Papua New Guinea and Russia".

The 138-metrenaval vessel will be in Papua New Guinea for three days as part of a training tour.

Mr Pato said it was a "gesture of friendship" between the two countries ahead of the APEC Leader's Summit in Port Moresby in November.

Reminder of Russian interest in Indo-Pacific

Richard Herr, adjunct professor of diplomacy and regional affairs at the University of Fiji, said the trip showed Moscow has placed value in the region.

"It is a Russian reminder that they are interested in the new geopolitics of the Indo-Pacific theatre and that they do see some advantage in showing an interest in PNG hosting the APEC summit," he said.

But Dr Herr said Russia's interest in APEC is small compared to the money China has poured into PNG to help it host this year's