After the disappointing performance of his D.I through D.IV, Fokker resolved to produce a smaller, lighter rotary-powered design.

The new prototype, designated M.21, was a development of the earlier M.17 fighter which Fokker had produced for the Austro-Hungarian Air Service.

After the addition of a modified cowling and stringers along the fuselage sides, the aircraft was designated M.22.

Due to the low-compression Oberursel U.I, the D.V offered poor performance compared to the Albatros fighters.

When the Fokker Dr.I entered service in late 1917, small numbers of D.V aircraft were issued to squadrons for use as conversion trainers.