Abstract: Based on the finite element method, the numerical calculation model for the sound scattering from multi-cabin cylindrical shells filled with different media is established, and the sound scattering characteristics of a two-cabin cylindrical shell filled with air-air, air-water, and water-water respectively are simulated. The sound scattering experiments for the three types of two-cabin cylindrical shells are carried out, and the corresponding time-angle spectra and frequency-angle spectra are obtained and analyzed. The influences of the surface and end face of the shell and the internal water on the scattering sound field are analyzed by the physical acoustic method. The formation mechanism of the interference fringe characteristics in the frequency-angle spectra of the two-cabin cylindrical shell is revealed. The results of the research provide a theoretical support for the active sonar detection and identification of the underwater targets with sub-cabins, such as underwater unmanned vehicles.