The Arkhangelskiy Ar-2 was powered by two liquid-cooled Klimov M-105 engines, which represented a significant technological refinement over the powerplants utilized in earlier Tupolev SB variants. Each of these 12-cylinder engines produced 1,050 hp at takeoff, enabling the aircraft to achieve a maximum speed of approximately 512 km/h (318 mph) at altitude.

Aerodynamic and Structural Modifications

A defining characteristic of the Ar-2's powerplant installation was the transition to a "slim-nacelle" design. This configuration was achieved through several innovative engineering choices:

• Radiator Relocation: Unlike the standard SB series, which housed radiators in the engine cowlings, the Ar-2 featured cell-type water-cooling radiators positioned inside the outer wing sections.
• Air Inlets: The air intakes for these radiators were rectangular openings integrated into the leading edge of the wings. The airflow through these radiators was regulated by movable shutters mounted on the upper wing surface.
• Engine Nacelle Profile: By moving the radiators into the wings, the engine nacelles were reduced to a minimal mid-section, drastically lowering drag and improving the aircraft’s overall aerodynamic profile.
• Exhaust System: The aircraft was equipped with jet-type exhaust nozzles designed to provide a degree of auxiliary thrust.

Propeller Configuration

Standard production Ar-2 units, such as those from the 511th series, were equipped with VISh-22E three-blade variable-pitch metal propellers. These propellers had a diameter of 3.1 meters (10.2 feet), an increase from the 3.0-meter diameter propellers used on earlier M-105-powered prototypes.

Performance and Limitations

The M-105 powerplant allowed the Ar-2 to reach a service ceiling of 10,500 meters (34,400 feet) and provided a climb rate of 6.55 minutes to 5,000 meters. However, the placement of the radiators within the wings necessitated a reduction in the capacity of the wing fuel tanks from 405 liters to 330 liters, which impacted the aircraft's internal fuel load compared to its predecessors.

While the Ar-2 was primarily associated with the M-105 engine, records indicate that at least one airframe was used in 1942 as a testbed for the more powerful 1,400 hp M-107 engines.