A deployable security barrier system (10, 10′, 110) is formed by deploying bullet-proof or bullet-resistant barrier fence sections (26, 26′, 28, 28′). A control system which enables rapid deployment of the sections to form across a hallway or other closed area a barrier fence (30, 130) which is high enough to prevent or at least greatly impede a person from passing through or over the fence. The barrier fence (30, 130) may extend from floor to ceiling or to a fixed barrier extending downwardly from the ceiling. The barrier fence may have at least one transparent section (26a, 28a) to enable law enforcement or security persons to observe the situation on the other side of the barrier fence. The controls also permit at least partial opening of the barrier fence to enable law enforcement or security personnel to pass through it as needed. Supplemental alarm and/or distracting and/or disabling agencies may be deployed in addition to the barrier fence (30, 130).