Boeing Defense Employees Weigh New Contract to Resolve Prolonged Strike
Nearly 3,200 Boeing defense workers are currently voting on a new contract proposal that may bring an end to a strike extending beyond three months. This labor dispute has caused critically important interruptions in the manufacturing timelines of F-15 fighter jets and other vital defense initiatives.
key Elements of the Latest Contract Offer
The proposed agreement features a significant wage increase totaling 24% over five years, coupled with an immediate signing bonus of $6,000-twice the previous upfront amount of $3,000. Tho, this offer removes an earlier plan by Boeing to provide additional payments totaling $4,000 at later intervals.
Strike Origins and Its Consequences on Production
The strike involves employees primarily based in St.Louis who are members of District 837 under the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). Their walkout began on August 4th-the first such action since 1996-after rejecting prior contract proposals they deemed insufficient in addressing their demands.
This work stoppage has notably disrupted Boeing’s defense manufacturing output. CEO kelly Ortberg recently acknowledged delays affecting critical programs including F-15 fighter jets, F-18 upgrades, and various munitions projects during discussions at an investor conference.
Measures Taken Amidst Labor Disruptions
In response to production challenges caused by the strike, Boeing assigned non-union personnel to certain defense product lines as a temporary solution. Despite these efforts, full operational recovery hinges on reaching consensus with IAM-represented workers.
The Defense Division’s Impact on Boeing’s Financial Health
Boeing’s defense sector accounted for approximately 30% of its total revenue-$65.5 billion-in the first nine months of 2025. This highlights how crucial uninterrupted operations are not only for company profitability but also for fulfilling national security contracts efficiently.
A Look Back: Previous Labor Conflicts at Boeing
This negotiation follows closely after last year’s notable seven-week strike involving more than 32,000 unionized machinists responsible for assembling commercial aircraft-a disruption that similarly delayed multiple production schedules across key programs.
Potential Resolution Timeline Based on Vote Results
If union members approve this week’s proposal,IAM District 837 employees could resume work as early as Sunday-potentially concluding one of the aerospace industry’s lengthiest strikes in recent memory.
