Breaking: Boeing Defense workers represented by the International association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 have authorized a strike, potentially disrupting production of key military aircraft including the F-15 and F/A-18 fighter jets. The strike could begin as early as August 14th, according to IAM officials.
The dispute centers around a new contract for approximately 2,500 Boeing employees at facilities in St. Louis and St. Charles, Missouri, and Mascoutah, Illinois. Workers rejected a previous contract offer on july 28th, citing concerns over wages, benefits, and work schedules.
IAM District 837 President and Directing Business Representative David Chartrand stated the rejected offer fell short of recognizing the contributions of the workforce.Boeing’s proposal included an average wage increase of 40%, but union members deemed it insufficient, particularly considering the company’s recent financial performance and the rising cost of living.
Boeing Air Dominance vice president and general manager Dan Gillian, who also serves as senior St. Louis site executive,expressed disappointment with the vote,emphasizing the company’s preparedness for a strike. Gillian confirmed the implementation of a contingency plan to maintain operations with non-striking personnel and continue supporting customers.
The workers at these facilities are responsible for the assembly and maintenance of critical defense systems,including weapons systems,missile technology,and the aforementioned fighter jets. The F-15 Eagle, first introduced in 1976, remains a cornerstone of the U.S. Air force, while the F/A-18 Super Hornet is a carrier-based multirole fighter used by the navy.
The previous contract expired at midnight on July 27th. Negotiations between Boeing and IAM District 837 began several weeks prior, but ultimately failed to reach a mutually agreeable resolution.The union represents a meaningful portion of Boeing’s skilled workforce in the region, and a prolonged strike could have substantial implications for national defense production.
Anthony Lee, president of NTEU chapter 282, representing approximately 9,000 Food and Drug Administration employees, offered support for the Boeing workers, stating they “deserve a contract that keeps their families secure and recognizes their unmatched expertise,” according to a statement relayed by NPR.
