CONCEPTUAL MODELS OF MULTI-LEVEL PHYSICAL PROTECTION SYSTEMS FOR SPECIAL-PURPOSE AND CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE FACILITIES

Ramil Akhundov; Elshan Hashimov; Islam Islamov

doi:10.36074/grail-of-science.23.01.2026.066

CONCEPTUAL MODELS OF MULTI-LEVEL PHYSICAL PROTECTION SYSTEMS FOR SPECIAL-PURPOSE AND CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE FACILITIES

Authors

Ramil Akhundov National Defence University of Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan https://orcid.org/0009-0001-8798-8044
Elshan Hashimov Azerbaijan Technical University, National Defense University, Azerbaijan https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8783-1277
Islam Islamov Baku Engineering University, Baku, Azerbaijan https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8645-0640

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36074/grail-of-science.23.01.2026.066

Keywords:

multi-level physical protection, special-purpose facilities, critical infrastructure, conceptual modeling, zoning and controlled transitions, defense-in-depth, risk-based protection, insider threat, threat pathways, escalation and governance, performance indicators, scenario-based verification, audit evidence

Summary

This paper develops an integrated set of conceptual models for multi-level physical protection systems applicable to special-purpose facilities and critical infrastructure facilities. The framework unifies spatial zoning and controlled transitions with a functional protection chain and a governance layer that formalizes responsibilities, thresholds, escalation, and audit evidence. A traceability logic maps threats to zones, functions, components, indicators, and verification artifacts, enabling scenario-based validation and continuous improvement. The proposed approach addresses persistent implementation gaps, namely fragmented modeling, weak verification structure, and limited auditability of performance claims.