Boeing Defense Workers' Union Seeks Congressional Intervention Amid Strike

Boeing's defense union, IAM, has urged lawmakers to intervene in the ongoing strike by 3,200 workers in the St. Louis area. The union represents machinists building fighter aircraft, missiles, and munitions, and is seeking a deal that would raise wages by 20% and boost retirement contributions. The strike adds pressure to Boeing's defense and space division, which contributes a third of the company's revenue.

Boeing's defense division, a significant contributor to the company's revenue, is facing pressure from a strike by 3,200 workers in the St. Louis area. The International Association of Machinists (IAM) union, which represents machinists building fighter aircraft, missiles, and munitions, has urged lawmakers to intervene in the ongoing strike. The union is seeking a deal that would raise wages by 20% and boost retirement contributions.

The strike, which entered its second week, has halted production at facilities manufacturing the F/A-18 Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler, F-15 Eagle, T-7A Red Hawk trainer aircraft, and the new F-47 stealth fighter. The strike also affects production of the MQ-25 Stingray refueling drone and components for Boeing’s 777X commercial aircraft [1].

The IAM union rejected two successive contracts proposed by Boeing, citing concerns about the proposed 20% wage increase over four years, which they argue would be eroded by tariff-driven inflation. The union also opposes a deal that would force new employees to wait 12 years to reach top pay. Boeing management has expressed disappointment with the workers' decision to strike [2].

The strike adds pressure to Boeing's defense and space division, which contributes a third of the company's revenue. Despite the labor conflict, Boeing's financial performance remains stable. In the second quarter, the corporation's loss amounted to $176 million against $1.09 billion in 2024. Revenue for this period reached $22.75 billion (35% higher than in 2024) [2].

The IAM union has called for an end to tiered wages, immediate top pay, cost-of-living adjustments, expanded paid leave, and full retirement. The union has also urged workers to form rank-and-file committees to place the conduct of the struggle in the hands of the workers themselves [1].

References:

[1] https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2025/08/13/iyzv-a13.html
[2] https://www.akm.ru/eng/news/employees-of-boeing-defense-companies-are-on-strike/