An armor system useful, for example, as a shroud, comprising a first pliable,
cut resistant fibrous layer and a second pliable fibrous layer is disclosed. The
first layer is arranged to receive an impact from a large projectile prior to the
second layer and engages the projectile to slow its velocity. The second layer
is substantially coextensive with the first and dissipates the incoming energy
of the impact to resist complete penetration of the second layer by the projectile,
preferably by deforming in response to the impact. Both layers comprise fibers
having a tensile modulus of at least about 200 g/d, and an energy-to-break of at
least about 8 J/g and a tenacity equal to or greater than about 10 g/d. In another
embodiment, the layers are reversed relative to the impact face of the system so
that the second layer becomes the first layer and is resistant to projectiles impacting
the system, while the first layer becomes the second layer and resists deformation
of the system by projectile impacts. Any projectile which completely penetrates
the first layer is engaged by the second layer to slow its velocity and prevent
complete penetration of the second layer. This armor system provides excellent
ballistic resistance with enhanced deformation control.