Vehicles

In recent years, we have seen several examples in Europe of attacks where vehicles were used as weapons – in the cities of Nice and Berlin in 2016, London, Stockholm and Barcelona in 2017. Protective security and countering terrorism measures has therefore, in many cases, become synonymous with concrete barriers and planters. However, it is also possible to integrate security measures into the site design, before creating an outdoor space.

When protecting against vehicle-borne attacks, Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) guidance is recommended. The attacker typically uses the vehicle in one of three ways:
- Weaponisation of the vehicle itself, also referred to as Vehicle As a Weapon (VAW);
- To transport and house explosives, i.e., the vehicle is part of the explosion;
- To transport attackers and/or weapons.

When working with HVM, a Vehicle Dynamics Assessment (VDA) should be carried out during the programme phase of the construction process. The results will feed into the overall risk assessment, which should also include an analysis of the physical area where the assets to be protected are located, as well as access routes. Likewise, surrounding areas and activities should be considered, as these factors can generally lead to vulnerabilities and threats and impact the effectiveness of security measures.

HVM comes in different forms and levels of security. The range is broad and includes passive, active and temporary measures, either custom-made products, architectural solutions or certified standardised products, ready for installation. Often, a combination of architectural considerations and products can solve a task, achieving a high level of security with an attractive architectural form.

The risk assessment should be considered as a dynamic document. After installing HVM measures, the assessment should be reviewed periodically to note changes in the physical environment. E.g. the demolition of neighbouring property or changes in the landscape, may open up new access routes that did not previously exist and now create new vulnerabilities for the area.