Abstract: Fiber-reinforced ceramic matrix composites are fabricated by a process wherein a fiber reinforcement material, preferably in the form of a fiber array or ribbon of parallel-aligned monofilament fibers, is combined with multiple sheets of ceramic matrix material, preferably in the form of thin flexible ceramic tape. A preform consisting of a layered assembly of the fibers and ceramic matrix sheet is consolidated with heat and pressure into an integral, substantially void-free ceramic matrix composite wherein the matrix has fully penetrated and infiltrated the fiber array and wherein the fibers are disposed in precise alignment and position, following the fiber alignment in the preform.