The Arado Ar 196 was a German shipboard reconnaissance floatplane used by the Luftwaffe during World War II. Designed and manufactured by the Arado Flugzeugwerke company, the Ar 196 served as the primary reconnaissance aircraft aboard German naval vessels, including battleships, cruisers, and aircraft carriers.

With its distinctive floatplane configuration, the Ar 196 featured a high-mounted monoplane wing and a twin-float undercarriage, allowing it to take off and land on the water’s surface. This design made the Ar 196 well-suited for maritime reconnaissance missions, providing naval forces with crucial intelligence on enemy ship movements, coastal defenses, and maritime traffic.

The aircraft was crewed by a pilot and an observer/navigator, with the observer responsible for operating the reconnaissance equipment and cameras. The Ar 196 was equipped with a variety of cameras for aerial photography, as well as radio equipment for communication with naval vessels.

Powered by a single BMW 132 radial engine, the Ar 196 had a maximum speed of around 250 km/h (155 mph) and a range of approximately 1,000 km (620 miles). While not particularly fast or heavily armed, the Ar 196 was valued for its reliability, maneuverability, and versatility in maritime environments.

During World War II, the Ar 196 saw extensive service with the Kriegsmarine (German Navy) aboard various surface vessels, conducting reconnaissance missions, spotting enemy naval targets, and providing artillery fire correction. It also served as a liaison aircraft, transporting personnel and supplies between ships and shore bases.

One of the notable features of the Ar 196 was its participation in naval battles and operations throughout the war, including the Battle of the Atlantic, the North African Campaign, and the Arctic Convoys. It operated from a wide range of naval vessels, from battleships and cruisers to auxiliary ships and seaplane tenders.