  The use of measured vibration data from structures has a long history of
enabling the development of methods for inference and monitoring. In
particular, applications based on system identification and structural health
monitoring have risen to prominence over recent decades and promise significant
benefits when implemented in practice. However, significant challenges remain
in the development of these methods. The introduction of realistic, full-scale
datasets will be an important contribution to overcoming these challenges. This
paper presents a new benchmark dataset capturing the dynamic response of a
decommissioned BAE Systems Hawk T1A. The dataset reflects the behaviour of a
complex structure with a history of service that can still be tested in
controlled laboratory conditions, using a variety of known loading and damage
simulation conditions. As such, it provides a key stepping stone between simple
laboratory test structures and in-service structures. In this paper, the Hawk
structure is described in detail, alongside a comprehensive summary of the
experimental work undertaken. Following this, key descriptive highlights of the
dataset are presented, before a discussion of the research challenges that the
data present. Using the dataset, non-linearity in the structure is
demonstrated, as well as the sensitivity of the structure to damage of
different types. The dataset is highly applicable to many academic enquiries
and additional analysis techniques which will enable further advancement of
vibration-based engineering techniques.
