It was also the product of a coherent strategy for creating a more flexible, lower-cost workforce, a strategy that only worked because Cat was willing to endure a long strike and reduced profits (at least $100 million in 1991-1992) in order to get what it wanted.
Cat endured reduced profits to get what it wanted.
Parents have the same obligations to support their children regardless of whether they are, or ever were, married to each other.