Purpose <p>This paper conducts a comprehensive investigation into the dynamic and damping characteristics of composite cylindrical shells incorporating multiple viscoelastic damping layers. A refined mathematical model is developed, specifically tailored for multilayer composite shell structures with embedded damping treatments. </p> Methods <p>The formulation employs the first-order shear theory to establish the kinematic relationships and constitutive equations. The governing equations are systematically derived employing Hamilton’s principle, accounting for the viscoelastic material behavior through a complex modulus approach. The eigenvalue problem is solved analytically by the Navier solution technique, providing efficient computation of natural frequency (NF) and associated loss factor (LF) for simply-supported composite open cylindrical shells with varying numbers of damping layers.</p> Results <p>A comprehensive parametric investigation was performed to assess the effects of critical structural parameters. Important conclusions are drawn regarding the optimal design strategies for composite sandwich open cylindrical shells with integrated viscoelastic damping treatments, providing valuable guidance for practical engineering applications in aerospace and automotive industries requiring enhanced vibration control.</p>