Depicted
here is a modified Academy 1/144 F-4E kit to an IDF F-4E Kurnass 2000. The
IDF received the first lot of F-4E Phantoms in late 1969 deo the US and
having inducted them into operational status, the F-4Es were baptized
“Kurnass” (Sledge Hammer). In 1980 the IDF embarked on a local upgrade
programme for her F-4E Phantoms and the Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI)
took on the contract at its facility at Ben Guiron Airport. The upgrade
involved the avionics as well as some structural strengthening and more to
the aircraft. Air-to-air refuelling probes were fitted on them.
The
IDF 201 SQN aka “Ha Achat” (The One) received the first production
Kurnass 2000 in April 1987. Of the 204 F-4Es acquired, some fifty-five
aircraft were upgraded to Kurnass 2000 by 1989.
The modification of the Academy
kit to make it look like the IDF Kurnass 2000 involves mainly
scratch-building the leading edge slats on the main wings and the
refueling probe. More accurate AIM-9 missiles and pylons were also
scratch built. This was followed by the usual enhancement/corrections to
the kit to remedy the inherent flaws found on this kit.
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I created the
decals for S/N 676 belonging to 201 SQN based in Ramon AB. It was
originally S/N 276 prior to the upgrade. The kit is painted the standard
IDF unique camo from pre-mix basic Tamiya/Hobby colours to lend it the
best shade possible. Light weathering was applied. I just could not resist
adding on the “kill markings” on its nose which was not found on the
original aircraft. A ‘what-if’ afterthought.
Enjoy the photos!!
S K Loh
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images below to see larger images
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