In 2001/02, Raytheon and the U.S. Army have tested the TOW 2B Aero (originally called TOW 2B (ER) (Extended Range)) variant of the TOW 2B, which is a relatively minor modification of existing rounds to extend the range to 4500 m (14800 ft). The missile has a longer guidance wire and a more aerodynamic nose for enhanced flight performance. The qualification tests of the TOW 2B Aero were conducted in 2003, and the first production contract was awarded in June 2004. No separate BGM-71 series designation for the TOW 2B Aero has been announced (it is possible that it is designated as BGM-71F-6).
The TOW 2B Aero has been further developed into a wireless missile, which replaces the wire with an RF data link. The RF command transmitter is located in the expendable missile container, and therefore no modifications to the launcher itself are necessary. In October 2006, Raytheon received the first production contract from the U.S. Army for wireless TOW 2B Aero missiles.