Boeing Defense Strike Extends as Workers Reject Latest Contract Offer

The ongoing strike at Boeing Defense in St. Louis has entered its 13th week after roughly 3,200 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 rejected the company’s latest contract proposal. Union leaders criticized Boeing for failing to address employee concerns, accusing executives of disregarding the workers who build the company’s advanced military aircraft.

IAM International President Brian Bryant stated that Boeing’s leadership “continues to insult the very people who build the world’s most advanced military aircraft,” emphasizing that the company’s proposal ignored key worker demands. Boeing expressed disappointment over the rejection, saying it would move forward with contingency plans to mitigate the strike’s impact.

The five-year offer included a $3,000 stock bonus that vests over three years, a $1,000 retention bonus after four years, and improved wage growth for top-scale employees. However, it reduced hourly wage increases tied to attendance and certain shift work. Union leaders argued that the company’s offer fell short of expectations, particularly regarding retirement contributions and a ratification bonus closer to the $12,000 given to commercial airplane workers during a previous strike.

Boeing’s Vice President Dan Gillian described the offer as “market-leading,” but maintained that the company would not increase the deal’s overall value. IAM estimated that its proposal would add about $50 million to the total cost, while Boeing continues to face financial pressure, with analysts expecting another unprofitable quarter and potential multi-billion-dollar losses on the delayed 777X program.

The strike, which began on August 4, has already delayed F-15EX fighter jet deliveries to the U.S. Air Force. As workers rely on $300 weekly strike benefits and second jobs, union leaders continue pressing Boeing to negotiate a fair contract that recognizes their contributions.