Boeing fighter jet workers go on strike after rejecting contract offer with pay raises

Core Points - Over 3,200 union members at Boeing's fighter jet assembly plants in St. Louis, Missouri, and Illinois went on strike after rejecting a second contract offer [1] - The rejected four-year contract proposed a 40% average wage increase, a 20% general wage increase, and a $5,000 ratification bonus, along with additional vacation time and sick leave [2][4] - Boeing's defense division is expanding its manufacturing facilities in St. Louis for the new F-47A fighter jet after winning the contract this year [8] Company Response - Boeing expressed disappointment over the rejection of the contract that included significant wage growth [4] - Boeing's CEO downplayed the potential impact of the strike, referencing a previous seven-week strike that the company managed effectively [6] Union Perspective - The union emphasized that workers deserve a contract that reflects their skills and critical roles in national defense [5]