This paper summarizes some of the pioneering work done in developing the processing techniques to consolidate metal and ceramic matrix composites with 3-D braided fiber architecture. The 3-D braided fiber architecture features a fully integrated structure with multidirectional reinforcement and allows for the braiding of complex shapes. For metal matrix composite, a 3-D braided AI2O3fibers preform reinforced Al-Li matrix composite has been successfully fabricated by liquid vacuum infiltration methods. For ceramic matrix composites, chemical vapor infiltration technique has been used to densify a 3-D braided Nicalon fibers preform with SiC matrix composite. A significant improvement in composite performance can be achieved through the architecture of 3-D integrated reinforcement geometry. The future needs and directions for developing viable methods for fabricating strong, tough high temperature composites with 3-D reinforcements is also discussed.