Models in the series became a list of prototype ventures from V-1 to V-6 each progressively featuring a new major component (the first prototype becoming airborne in 1940). With the arrival of the Ar 240A-0 series, the system had reach production stages. The definitive design would end up being the multi-purpose Ar 240C series of which several major variants would be developed.
Performance from a series of Daimler-Benz engines were impressive. The noted DB601A was of an in-line engine type, though designed in such a way as to appear as standard radials. Each engine amassed some 1,075 horsepower allowing for speeds of up to 384 miles per hour, a service ceiling of over 34,000 feet and a range of over 1,200 miles. As impressive as those statistics were, the Ar 240 still suffered from poor in flight characteristics that went on to doom the design. Nevertheless, the system was used in the unarmed reconnaissance role over England during the operational trials phase of the system's development at a time when few other two-engine platform types offered up such range. Reports of production totals amounted to a measly 14 systems in circulation.
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