Many articles I read on the Kurnass 2000 upgrade, and derivative Terminator 2020 upgrade, describe a set of fuselage strakes added to increase maneuverability. They are described as being atop or above the intake trunking. Unfortunately, I can not find a photograph that shows these strakes. Can someone point these out in an online photograph? (I am also curious about the actual aerodynamic effect they are generating.)

I’ve just received a book that answers the question. In “The ‘Kurnass’ in IDF/AF Service 1989 until Today” by Klein and Aloni, 2009, it states:

“strakes were to be installed over the air intakes to increase the Phantom’s turn rate and longitudinal stability, however, this installation was only tested and not fitted to the operational aircraft.”

So, it looks like the mystery is solved and “no strakes modification” is the answer for why we can’t find them photographs!

As an aside, I picked up all four of the “Double Ugly” F-4 books and they are very nice. Hopefully they will continue this fine work. (I received Tommy Thomason’s F7U-1 monograph in the same shipment. He continues to be my favorite aviation author and does not disappoint in this effort.)

Thanks!