The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has thrown its support behind a proposed 10-year contract for the procurement and sustainment of the F-35 Lightning II jets. The union is urging Congress to approve multiyear contracting authority in the Fiscal Year 2027 defense bills, arguing that it would save taxpayers $9 billion to $10 billion over the decade compared to annual purchasing.
IAM represents over 600,000 employees, including those at Boeing and Lockheed Martin, who build the F-35 aircraft and its engines. The union emphasizes that a longer contract would provide stability for suppliers and workers, allowing for sustained investment in specialized skills. The F-35 program supports more than 317,000 U.S. jobs across 48 states and Puerto Rico.
IAM International President Brian Bryant highlighted the importance of federal support for the defense workforce. "IAM Union members build this aircraft with their hands and they build it to last," Bryant said. He added that a 10-year commitment would protect union jobs, save taxpayer money, and accelerate the delivery of advanced capabilities to warfighters.
Beyond manufacturing, the extended contract would enable Lockheed Martin to invest over $7 billion in sustainment efforts, aiming to achieve an 80% mission-capable fleet by 2030. The union's call aligns with a bipartisan letter from Congress urging multiyear procurement authority and funding for at least 85 aircraft in fiscal 2027. Bryant noted that long-term funding would provide much-needed stability for the industry.