Thousands of Boeing Defense Workers Strike in Missouri, Illinois

More than 3,200 Boeing defense workers in Missouri and Illinois, represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837, began striking after rejecting Boeing's revised four-year contract offer. Despite Boeing's offer of a 20% pay raise over four years, a $5,000 signing bonus, and more vacation time, the union cited demands for better job security, recognition, and opposition to certain work schedule changes as reasons for rejection. Boeing expressed disappointment but activated contingency plans to maintain limited production during the strike, emphasizing the critical role of the affected workers in national defense. This strike is the first at Boeing's defense division since 1996 and much smaller than last year's eight-week strike by 33,000 commercial airplane workers. The dispute also reflects broader tensions surrounding Boeing's role in defense contracts amid geopolitical conflicts, with union members opposing the company’s participation in military production under the current administration. Boeing faces ongoing challenges, including safety issues and financial pressures, which complicate its ability to resolve labor disputes swiftly.