The initial compaction under uniaxial hot-pressing conditions of titanium monotapes containing silicon carbide fibres is studied for variable matrix/fibre volume ratio, temperature (800-950 degrees C) and compaction stress (10-40 MPa). The matrix compaction rate is predominantly affected by the latter two variables, less by temperature. The sample pore structure is strongly influenced by the preform packing characteristics including fibre-to-matrix volume ratio and irregularities in fibre arrangements.