Protecting public spaces and public events against vehicle-borne attacks – the importance of VSB and HVM systems in the context of recommendations for Poland
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The aim of the article is to discuss HVM (hostile vehicle mitigation) systems and VSB (vehicle security barriers) devices as a means of protecting public spaces and mass events against the deliberate use of a vehicle as a weapon. The conceptual framework relating to HVM systems and VSBs was organised, and current research standards concerning security devices were presented. The nature of this type of threats and the vulnerability of public spaces to them were discussed, followed by a presentation on the importance of risk analysis, the assessment of access-routes, current testing standards and the practical interpretation of crash-test results. The most common errors made during the design, installation and operation of safety systems were highlighted. A separate section was devoted to a model for designing HVM systems based on threat-scenario analysis, buffer zones, layered protection and organisational responsibility. The article highlights the need to increase awareness of the issue in question in the Polish context and sets out directions for the systemic development of protective measures for public spaces and public events.
Source: Terroryzm
Author: Jarosław Jaźwiński
Institution: Uczelnia Korczaka – Akademia Nauk Stosowanych
Language: English
Subfield: Automotive Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7170477476