TYPE: Interceptor, fighter

ACCOMMODATION: Pilot only

POWER PLANT: One BMW 003A-1 turbo-jet engine, rated at 800 kp

PERFORMANCE: 470 mph (estimated)

COMMENT: This Arado design dates back to an early 1943s project of a small turbo-jet engine powered ground attack aircraft. In late 1944 this design was revised and submitted for the Volksjäger (Peoples Fighter) competition. The Ar E.580 had an unswept wing that was mounted low on the fuselage. The tail unit had twin fins and rudders. A single BMW 003A-1 jet engine was positioned above the fuselage with the air intake close to the cockpit partially obstructed by the bulged canopy. A tricycle landing-gear was provided. The winner of the competition was the Heinkel He 162 “Spatz” (“Sparrow”). So the Arado project was cancelled. (Ref.: 17)