Boeing reported $23 billion in revenue for the third quarter of 2025 and announced a defense backlog valued at $76 billion. The company also stated it was cash-flow positive for the first time since 2023. However, more than 3,200 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 in St. Louis remain on strike. These workers are seeking a contract they believe reflects their contributions to Boeing’s defense programs.
The striking IAM members are responsible for building and supporting production of key defense aircraft, including the F-15EX, F/A-18, T-7A, MQ-25, and the future F-47 fighter jet. The ongoing labor dispute has already led to public acknowledgment by the U.S. Air Force that deliveries of the F-15EX have been delayed.
During an earnings call, Boeing executives addressed the impact of the strike and discussed plans to reduce its effects while also mentioning efforts to develop a new company culture.
“Boeing’s so-called contingency plan is failing because they can’t replace the skill, precision, and experience of IAM Union members in St. Louis who have spent their careers building the world’s most advanced military products,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “If Boeing is serious about culture change and rebuilding its brand, it starts with respecting the people who make its success possible — not trying to sideline them. Investors must also take into account Boeing’s continued failure to manage labor relations responsibly. The company’s refusal to engage in fair bargaining is not only hurting workers and national defense programs — it’s a risk to Boeing’s long-term stability, reputation, and credibility.”
Boeing noted plans for further investment in its St. Louis operations after securing a contract for production of the F-47 fighter jet. This achievement was attributed by union leaders to the skills and commitment of IAM members.
“The workers whose craftsmanship and innovation made these investments possible deserve to share fully in the prosperity they’ve helped create,” Bryant added.
Union officials pointed out that while Boeing’s financial performance has improved, this progress is due in large part to employees’ efforts at commercial aviation facilities across the country.
“Boeing’s executives can talk about transformation all they want, but the real transformation begins when they treat all employees as one Boeing,” Bryant continued. “The company hasn’t delivered a single new F-15 during this 13-week strike, and production delays are now rippling into the 777X program. It’s time for Boeing to end this strike, get our members back to work, and live up to the values they claim to be rebuilding.”
Negotiations between IAM Union representatives and Boeing continue without resolution. On Monday, union negotiators submitted a revised contract proposal that included concessions regarding 401(k) improvements in hopes of reaching an agreement. According to union statements, Boeing rejected this offer without making a counterproposal. In response, IAM filed a second Unfair Labor Practice charge against Boeing over what it describes as bad faith bargaining.
The strike has prompted bipartisan attention from Congress. Sixteen members of the House Armed Services Committee urged Boeing on Wednesday to negotiate in good faith amid concerns about worsening delivery delays and potential impacts on national security.
IAM represents approximately 600,000 active and retired workers across various industries in North America.
