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ZrO(sub 2)-MoSi(sub 2) and ZrO(sub 2)/SiC-MoSi(sub 2) composites were fabricated by hot pressing and hot pressing/HIP at 1700(degrees)C. No reactions between ZrO(sub 2), SiC, and MoSi(sub 2) were observed. An amorphous silica glassy phase was present in all composites. Composites with unstabilized ZrO(sub 2) particles exhibited the highest room temperature fracture toughness, reaching a level three times that of pure MoSi(sub 2). Both the room temperature toughness and 1200(degrees)C strength of ZrO/(sub 2)SiC-MoSi(sub 2) composites were higher than ZrO(sub 2)-MoSi(sub 2) composites, indicating beneficial effects of combined reinforcement phases. Low strength levels were observed at 1400(degrees)C due to the presence of the silica glassy phase. Elimination of glassy phases and refinements in microstructural homogeneity are processing routes important to the optimization of the mechanical properties of these types of composites. 18 refs., 7 figs.