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WEST PLAINS, Mo., May 30, 2026 — Nearly 300 members of IAM Local 2782 (District 9) at Leonardo DRS have voted to ratify a new collective bargaining agreement, bringing an end to a difficult lockout while securing significant improvements in wages, benefits and paid time off.
The agreement provides for wage increases of 10% in the first year, 4% in the second year, 4% in the third year, 5% in the fourth year, and 5% in the fifth year, delivering a total compounded wage increase of more than 30% over the life of the contract. Members also secured protections that limit annual increases in insurance premiums to 5% per year, with no changes to healthcare copays.
The ratification follows weeks of solidarity and determination by IAM Union members, who remained united throughout the lockout while fighting for a contract that recognized the value of their skills, dedication, and contributions to national defense.
IAM Local 2782 members manufacture critical defense systems used by the U.S. military, including the M-SHORAD counter-drone and air defense system, battlefield surveillance technology, heavy assault bridging equipment, and fuel and water distribution systems that support military operations around the world.
Throughout the dispute, members remained focused on achieving a fair agreement that addressed key concerns surrounding wages, healthcare costs, and quality of life. The newly ratified contract represents significant progress in each of those areas and provides greater economic security for workers and their families.
“The solidarity shown by these members throughout this process was inspiring,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “They stood together through challenging circumstances, and their perseverance helped secure a collective bargaining agreement that recognizes the important work they perform every day. This victory demonstrates what is possible when workers remain united.”
“The members of Local 2782 never lost sight of the power of standing together,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “They showed what solidarity means through their resilience, determination, and commitment to one another. This new contract represents more than meaningful economic gains — it lays the foundation for stronger working conditions, greater opportunities, and successful negotiations in the future.”
“These workers stood together and made their voices heard,” said IAM District 9 Business Representative BJ Wear. “Through their unity and determination, they secured meaningful gains that will improve the lives of members and their families. This ratification reflects the power of workers standing together and refusing to settle for less than they deserve.”
The ratification marks the successful conclusion of a contract battle that began when Leonardo DRS locked out IAM members on May 1 after members rejected the company’s initial proposal. Throughout the lockout, Local 2782 members remained united in their demand for a contract that addressed wages, healthcare costs, and quality-of-life issues while recognizing the critical role they play in supporting U.S. military readiness.
Their solidarity was evident on the picket lines and in successive contract votes, as members stood together in pursuit of an agreement that reflected the value of their work and their contributions to the company’s success and the missions it supports.
With the new agreement approved, members will return to work under a contract that delivers substantial economic improvements while establishing a strong foundation for future bargaining and continued progress.
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IAM Local 2782 members at Leonardo DRS’s West Plains facility manufacture a portfolio of critical U.S. Army systems, including fire support systems the Army has relied on since 1982; battlefield reconnaissance and surveillance platforms; heavy transport and mobility systems; fuel and water distribution equipment; and force protection technologies for armored vehicles.
The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.
