ZrB 2 –SiC composites with different SiC content were prepared through aqueous tape casting and hot pressing. The influences of dispersant, SiC content and binder content on the rheological properties of slurries were investigated and the conditions for preparing stable ZrB 2 –SiC suspensions were optimized. After tape casting and drying, the green ZrB 2 –SiC tapes showed good flexibility, lubricious surface and homogeneous microstructure. The ZrB 2 ceramics could be densified to 97.2% after hot-pressing, while the ZrB 2 containing 20 and 30vol% SiC ceramics were nearly fully densified (>99%). The sintered ZrB 2 –20vol% SiC ceramic had improved mechanical properties compared with ZrB 2 ceramic. Further increase in SiC content resulted in lower flexural strength and fracture toughness. SEM and TEM showed a fine microstructure with a clear grain boundary. The fracture mode changed from intragranular type for ZrB 2 to both intragranular and intergranular type for ZrB 2 –SiC composites.