The fifth-generation fighter jet flew from Circular Quay in the city up to North Head in Manly as onlookers gathered by the water.
The contract with Marand is the latest purchase order between the two longstanding partners and will be delivered from the company’s Bankstown facility.
The RAAF will be out in force on Thursday to celebrate Australia Day around the country. All the details are here.
Hawk two-seater jet aircraft prepare student pilots to master the controls of combat aircraft and progress towards fast attack aircraft such as the Super Hornet, Growler and F-35.
Red Flag Nellis takes place across more than 12,000 square miles of airspace and 2.9 million acres of land, including both desert and mountains.
It comes despite new Defence Minister Richard Marles raising doubts about the deal last year and stating it would be subject to a review process.