An advanced derivative, the Miles Hawk Major, was also quickly developed, alongside several specialised versions of the original aircraft.

The origins of the Hawk can be traced back to late 1932 and a discussion between F. G. Miles and Charles Powis in which the former expressed a desire to produce an affordable twin-seat low-wing monoplane.

[2] Powis, recognising the potential value of such a venture, opted to provide hangar space at Woodley Aerodrome for Miles to construct such an aircraft.

[4][3] As a consequence of its relatively clean design, it was quickly proven that its performance was about 50 per cent greater than that of its typical biplane contemporaries.

[3] In response to individual customer requirements, the company constructed a number of special one-off models, which included a cabin monoplane (M.2A), a long-range single-seater (M.2B) and three-seat versions for joy riding (M.2D).

This was also accompanied by a specialised version intended for air racing, the principal changes of which being the removal of the front seat to permit the installation of a longer and more powerful six-cylinder de Havilland Gipsy Six; it is sometimes referred to the Miles Hawk Speed Six.

The airframe was largely composed of spruce, with the exterior being covered by a combination of birch and ply; even elements such as the engine mounts were made of wood to reduce costs.

Lowering the cylinders below the propeller shaft axis greatly improved pilot visibility and allowed a shorter, lighter undercarriage.