Frequently at odds over wages, benefits and work rules, the IAM and Boeing are in complete agreement over who should build the next generation of Air Force Tankers.“It should be built by American workers using parts made in the United States of America,” declared Aerospace Coordinator Mark Blondin in an editorial published in Washington state’s The Daily Herald. “It should be built by American workers working for an American business. That American business is Boeing.”
Blondin took issue with efforts by the European Aeronautic Defense and Space Company (EADS) to win the U.S. military contract. “This is not an incidental commercial sale,” said Blondin. “This is a long-term program that could last 15 to 20 years. That's a long time for our country to rely on foreign countries to supply vital portions of our national defense.”
Blondin also called on elected officials to support Boeing’s bid to build the tanker on the proven Boeing 767 platform. “The Boeing product is vastly more efficient than the competitor's,” said Blondin. “It has a proven track record of success, and uniquely complements every other piece of aviation equipment in the U.S. military inventory. Long-term dividends will be paid on this American taxpayer investment in this technically superior product.”
Click here for more information and to send a letter urging your elected officials to support Boeing’s bid to build the next U.S. Air Force tanker.
