Boeing reportedly expects to secure a contract from technology companies this year to build a high-throughput communications satellite.

Tech firms, including Google, Amazon, Facebook and Apple are working on various projects to expand internet access to remote corners of the world.

Boeing Network and Space Systems business development vice-president Jim Simpson was quoted by Reuters saying: "The real key to being able to do these type of things is ultra high-throughput capabilities, where we’re looking at providing gigabytes, terrabytes, petabytes of capability."

However, Simpson did not reveal details about Boeing’s discussions with the technology companies.

"Tech firms, including Google, Amazon, Facebook and Apple are working on various projects to expand internet access to remote corners of the world."

Satellite manufacturers, including Boeing, have been looking to secure deals with tech giants, which are working to provide internet services covering 70% of the globe.

Earlier this year, Google and Fidelity Investments participated in a $1bn financing round for Space Exploration Technologies, which plans to build a constellation of 4,000 geosynchronous satellites for global internet connectivity.

Boeing Satellite Systems International president Mark Spiwak said the geosynchronous earth orbit satellites should possess greater processing power and larger bandwidth to serve global demand for connectivity.

Demand for geosynchronous earth orbit satellites is estimated at 24 a year. These satellites are said to offer lower costs for a large network of low-earth orbit satellites and require minimum maintenance.

Mr Spiwak added Boeing will also build low-earth orbit satellites based on customer requirements.