The first all-Australian-built Hawk, numbered A27-10, rolled out of BAE Systems' Williamtown hangar for its maiden test flight on 12 May 2000.
The Hawk LIF project was established to deliver and support a state-of-the-art fast jet training capability for the RAAF, replacing the Macchi jet trainer fleet which was retired in 2000.
The contract combined the acquisition of 33 advanced jet trainers with a 25-year life-of-type deeper maintenance support service by BAE Systems.
The RAAF procured 33 Hawks, 21 of which were assembled in Australia and 12 in the UK at BAE Systems' facilities at Brough and Warton.
Currently, 18 aircraft are operational at RAAF Base Williamtown and 15 at RAAF Base Pearce with BAE Systems providing on-site support at both airfields.
The contract has created more than 500 defence and aerospace jobs.
At BAE Systems' Williamtown facility alone, approximately 185 employees currently work on the Hawk LIF contract.
"This is a proud day for our company and our employees," Gerry Mann, general manager fast jet support for the aerospace business unit, said.
"We have delivered and maintained a quality product that meets our customer's primary goal of preparing its young fast jet pilots to operate the next generation of fighter aircraft."