A method to simultaneously synthesize and consolidate $Ti_5Si_4 ;and; Ti_5Si_3$-20 vol%Nb composite from powders of Ti, Si and Nb was investigated. Combustion synthesis was carried out under the combined effect of an electric field and mechanical pressure. Highly dense $Ti_5Si_4 ;and; Ti_5Si_3$-20 vol% Nb with relative densities up to 98% was produced from powders of Ti, Si and Nb under the application of 60 MPa pressure and 3000A current on the reactant.