Direct reaction synthesis (DRS), based on the principle of self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS), is anew method for preparing particulate metal matrix composites. TiCP/Al-4.5Cu-0.8Mg composites were fabricatedby DRS. Particulate composites were fabricated with Ti carbide (TiC) particles, generally less than 1.0 μm. Thereacted, thermal extruded samples exhibit a homogeneous distribution of fine TiC particles in Al-4.5Cu-0.8Mg matrix.Mechanical property evaluation of the composites has revealed a very high tensile strength relative to the matrixalloy. Fractographic analysis indicates ductile failure.