As the first functional jet engines became available, the RLM published
a requirement for a reconnaissance aircraft capable of long-range
patrols over Britain, all the way up to Scapa Flow. The task to build
the machine was given to Arado, who put Rüdiger Kosin in charge of the
design team. The initial E370 project was gradually tweaked and modified
until it evolved into its final form as a single-seat aircraft powered
by two jet engines in underwing pods, designated Ar 234.
In order to maximize the aircraft's range, Arado's design team embarked
on a radical weight-shedding crusade. Among the components eliminated
from the design was conventional landing gear, which was replaced with a
jettisonable three-wheel trolley used for take-offs and retractable
skids mounted under the fuselage for landings. These design features
were incorporated into the first A series prototypes, powered by Junkers
Jumo 004A engines.