Apple, Microsoft and Intel are going to make a bid for a Turkish government project that would see the winning company build and supply of up to 15 million tablets, over four years, to school children.

According to Apple Insider, Turkish Trade Minister Zafer Caglayan said that the three companies are actively engaged in pursuing a bid for this government-funded project, called Fatih (Turkish for conqueror).

Zafer Caglayan revealed that negotiations with Apple officials took place during his visit to the U.S. and noted that Apple as part of the deal would considering manufacturing various iPad and iPhone peripherals in Turkey, such as earphones and covers.

Rival companies Microsoft and Intel are also interested in the Fatih project, with Microsoft confirmed to make a visit to Turkey to learn more about this governmental initiative and Intel said to consider opening a research and development center in Turkey.

Another Turkish government official, Industry Minister Nihat Ergun said that the winning company will have to build the 15 million tablets in Turkey.