The present invention is a multi-piece barrel shroud which provides IR signature
and radar backscatter reduction over the entire length of the barrel by utilization
of special radar absorbing materials and shaped in accordance with commonly known
radar signature reduction techniques. The interior of the shroud includes cooling
passages for the circulation of ambient air by way of a forced air circulation
system which provides IR reduction. To facilitate barrel movement while minimizing
weight, the majority of the shroud is stationary and is independent of the gun
barrel. At least one other piece of the shroud is attached to the barrel near the
muzzle end and designed to move in unison with the muzzle during recoil. The recoiling
portion of the shroud is sized to mate with an annular recess within the distal
end of the stationary portion so as to provide continuous shielding of the barrel
throughout the entire range of recoil displacement.
