Boeing hires permanent replacements amid second-month US defense strike

Boeing is moving forward with hiring permanent replacement workers to fill the roles of approximately 3,200 employees on strike at its defense plant in St. Louis and nearby areas, as the labor dispute extends beyond a month. The striking workers, members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 837, have rejected two contract offers, including one with a 20% wage increase and a $5,000 ratification bonus, citing concerns over wage freezes and benefits. Boeing Vice President Dan Gillian emphasized the company's willingness to negotiate within the current economic framework but criticized the union for demanding more without providing clear terms to end the strike, prompting Boeing to activate contingency plans including a job fair scheduled for September 16. The union has publicly stated on social media that minor adjustments are insufficient and rejected Boeing's latest offers, maintaining their strike to seek better pay and benefits. Boeing asserts it has maintained delivery and testing schedules despite the strike, but the ongoing work stoppage has begun affecting military production. The dispute highlights deeper tensions between Boeing management and the union over contract terms amid broader economic pressures and company valuation uncertainties.