Minot AFB improves base physical security capability Published July 27, 2010 Minot Air Force Base Antiterrorism Office MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- After 15 months of planning and construction, Minot AFB's new barrier system at the Magic City Gate is complete. "The new system will be used at our installation entry control point to deter and prevent individuals from attempting unlawful or unauthorized entry," said P.J. Pallotta, 5th Bomb Wing Antiterrorism Officer. The first line of defense in any physical security system is usually some form of perimeter protection system. The new system is designed primarily to prevent unauthorized vehicles from entering or exiting the base. The denial barrier can stop a 15,000 pound vehicle, traveling up to 50 mph with minimal damage to the vehicle and facility making it a reduced risk barrier system. Additionally, the base recently implemented and upgraded its physical security barrier plan. This plan, when implemented, provides a capability to prevent high speed vehicle approaches and breaches to the installation perimeter and facilities. "Ensuring we have sufficient numbers and proper placement is something we always have to validate. An inadequate barrier plan is something you do not want to discover during a real-world threat," said Alexander D'Ambrosio, 91st Missile Wing ATO. The main purpose of this plan is to deny high-speed vehicle penetrations at the installation perimeter and at on-base facilities. It also serves as a way to prevent vehicles from parking too close to facilities on base. The 5th Civil Engineer Squadron's barrier team implements this plan on a regular basis and has become very efficient in their efforts. Staff Sgt. Jeremy Thomas, 5th CES barrier team Leader, has been the implementation team lead for two years now and has perfected the process. "Minot's static anti-ram vehicle barriers, mobile force protection barrier systems and perimeter security barriers are essential aids to our overall antiterrorism and integrated base defense plans," said Pallotta. Implementation of barrier plans and upgrading barrier systems is one of the key factors allowing Minot's highly disciplined Airmen protect our nation, and assuring our allies and friends, 24 hours a day, every day.