On August 4, 2025, approximately 3,200 Boeing workers who manufacture fighter jets and defense systems at three facilities in Missouri and Illinois began a strike after rejecting the company’s latest contract offer. The employees, members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837, walked off the job at Boeing locations in St. Louis, St. Charles, Missouri, and Mascoutah, Illinois, marking the first strike in Boeing’s defense sector since 1996.

The strike follows months of tense negotiations over a four-year labor agreement that included proposed wage increases and benefits improvements. Boeing had offered a 20% wage increase over four years, along with a $5,000 ratification bonus and enhancements to vacation and sick leave. The company also removed a scheduling condition that would have impacted workers’ overtime eligibility. Despite these concessions, union members felt the offer was insufficient, particularly criticizing the wage structure that largely favored newer hires while freezing wages for many senior workers.

Sam Cicinelli, Midwest territory general vice president of IAM, emphasized the workers’ sense of frustration: “IAM District 837 members build the aircraft and defense systems that keep our country safe. They deserve nothing less than a contract that keeps their families secure and recognizes their unmatched expertise.” Brian Bryant, IAM International President, added, “Our members have every right to demand a contract worthy of their contributions. We will be there on the picket lines, ensuring Boeing hears the collective power of working people.”

From Boeing’s side, Dan Gillian, vice president and general manager of Boeing Air Dominance and senior executive at the St. Louis site, expressed disappointment with the strike decision: “We’re disappointed our employees rejected an offer that featured 40% average wage growth and resolved their primary issue on alternative work schedules. We are prepared for a strike and have fully implemented our contingency plan to ensure our non-striking workforce can continue supporting our customers.”

The strike poses significant operational challenges for Boeing, especially given the critical role these workers play in assembling key military platforms such as the F-15 and F/A-18 fighter jets. Boeing has enacted contingency plans to maintain production with non-union workers, but the extent and duration of the strike will determine the real impact on aircraft delivery and defense contracts.

The current action also follows a difficult year for Boeing, including a prolonged strike by passenger aircraft workers in Washington state and ongoing scrutiny over past safety issues. The defense worker strike further underscores labor tensions within Boeing amid economic pressures such as inflation and competition for skilled aerospace labor.

For the affected workers, the strike means lost income and heightened uncertainty, but it reflects deep dissatisfaction over pay equity, work schedules, and benefits. Experienced machinist Keith Gallup noted in a local news interview that while newer hires might receive wage increases, “the wage freezes for senior employees have been frustrating after years of dedication.”

Looking ahead, union leaders and Boeing management must re-engage to address the core grievances and reach a mutually acceptable agreement. The strike could last weeks depending on negotiations, with consequences for Boeing’s production schedules and national defense readiness.

In summary, the strike by 3,200 skilled Boeing defense workers starting August 4, 2025, marks a significant labor action fueled by disputes over fair wages, work conditions, and recognition of experience. Both sides face pressure to resolve the standoff while safeguarding critical aerospace manufacturing operations during a challenging period for Boeing and the broader defense industry.