In the Second World War a manufacturer of great importance,
largely in connection with production of aircraft for
other companies,
Ar 68
but also in the development and production
of its own types. Originated in early 1917 with creation
of Werfte Warnemiinde der Flugzeugbaus
Friedrichshafen as a subsidiary of Flugzeugbau
Friedrichshafen GmbH. Aircraft work ceased in 1918, but
the factory was acquired 1921 by
Ar 66
Hugo Stinnes, and was
briefly engaged in shipbuilding. In 1924 Walter Rethel (formerly
with Kondor and Fokker) joined as designer, and
Stinnes created a Yugoslav subsidiary named Ikarus.
Arado Handelsgesellschaft mbH established 1925. SI
trainer biplane flown that year, followed by other
Ar.95
trainers,
SD II and III fighters, and civil aircraft, notably VI of 1928
(high-wing transport) and LII light cabin monoplane. Walter
Blume (formerly with Albatros) appointed chief engineer
1932; name Arado Flugzeugwerke adopted March 4,1933.
Ar 68 was Luftwaffe's first fighter; Ar
Ar 196
66 trainer also delivered
in quantity. Notable designs thereafter were Ar 80
monoplane fighter; Ar 95 multipurpose aircraft and torpedo-
carrier; Ar 196 ship's catapult floatplane, extensively
used in Second World War; Ar 231 experimental submarine-
borne monoplane; Ar 232 military transport,
Ar.234 "Blitz"
remarkable
for unique multiwheel landing gear, Ar 240 heavy
fighter/light bomber; and, most significant of all, Ar 234
jet-propelled single-seater, built both with two and four
turbojets and tested initially with jettisonable wheeled takeoff
trolley. Used for reconnaissance and bombing, the Ar
234 was the world's first jet bomber and the second jetpropelled
aircraft to enter service.
