Design of the RWD 22 started in October 1938 and by January 1939 the basic three projects were ready, each with different engine and armament configuration, but with a similar silhouette.
The first version was to be equipped with a German-built Argus As-10c with 177 kilowatts (237 hp) of power and would carry up to 200 kilograms (440 lb) of bombs.
The second variant was equipped with second generation Walter Minor 12-JMR with a projected power of 243 kilowatts (326 hp) and was to carry 300 kilograms (660 lb) of bombs.
The third and final version was to be equipped with a Polish-built third generation 316 kilowatts (424 hp) PZL G-1620B Mors II engine, already being used with the RWD-14 Czapla.
[1] In the summer of 1939 the third, heaviest variant was chosen by the Polish Navy and a wooden mock-up was completed for aerodynamic trials.