Aluminium matrix composites (AMCs) are lightweight, high-performance materials that combine aluminum or aluminum alloys with non-metallic reinforcements such as ceramics. The reinforcement can be continuous or discontinuous fibers, whiskers, or particles, with volume fractions ranging from a few percent to 70%. AMCs can be tailored to meet various industrial demands through different processing routes. Over three decades of research have led to significant advancements in understanding the intrinsic and extrinsic effects of ceramic reinforcement on the physical, mechanical, thermo-mechanical, and tribological properties of AMCs. These materials have found applications in high-tech areas such as aerospace, defense, automotive, thermal management, sports, and recreation. The paper provides an overview of AMC material systems, focusing on processing, microstructure, properties, and applications. Key advantages of AMCs include enhanced strength, reduced weight, and improved performance compared to unreinforced materials. The driving forces behind their use include performance, economic, and environmental benefits, particularly in the transportation sector. AMCs are seen as either replacements for existing materials or as enabling radical changes in system design. Despite challenges in knowledge, service properties, and material availability, efforts are being made to promote the wider adoption of AMCs through consortium and networking initiatives.Aluminium matrix composites (AMCs) are lightweight, high-performance materials that combine aluminum or aluminum alloys with non-metallic reinforcements such as ceramics. The reinforcement can be continuous or discontinuous fibers, whiskers, or particles, with volume fractions ranging from a few percent to 70%. AMCs can be tailored to meet various industrial demands through different processing routes. Over three decades of research have led to significant advancements in understanding the intrinsic and extrinsic effects of ceramic reinforcement on the physical, mechanical, thermo-mechanical, and tribological properties of AMCs. These materials have found applications in high-tech areas such as aerospace, defense, automotive, thermal management, sports, and recreation. The paper provides an overview of AMC material systems, focusing on processing, microstructure, properties, and applications. Key advantages of AMCs include enhanced strength, reduced weight, and improved performance compared to unreinforced materials. The driving forces behind their use include performance, economic, and environmental benefits, particularly in the transportation sector. AMCs are seen as either replacements for existing materials or as enabling radical changes in system design. Despite challenges in knowledge, service properties, and material availability, efforts are being made to promote the wider adoption of AMCs through consortium and networking initiatives.