Finite Element (FE) based modelling and simulation techniques based on fracture mechanics has been developed. The model can interpret and analyze effect of onset and growth of through-the-thickness cracks on fundamental frequency of vibration of shell structures. The developed FE model has been validated through comparison of stress and modal results with available literature and is found to be in good agreement. Three dimensional stress analysis of the laminated shell structure followed by implementation of Tsai-wu coupled stress failure criterion has been adopted to interpret initiation of through-the-thickness cracks in the laminated cylindrical shells. Strain Energy Release Rates (SERR), calculated through Modified Crack Closure Technique (MCCI) has been used to quantify the crack growth rate. Effect of different ply-orientations on crack growth and fundamental frequency of vibration has been studied in detail and conclusions have been drawn for improved performance of the shell structures. Keywords: Fibre Reinforced Polymer composite, Finite Element Analyses, Modified Crack Closure Integral, Cylindrical Shells, Strain Energy Release Rate.