Abstract: The metal matrix self lubricating composites(MMCS) as a group of high performance materials have caused great attention in the world due to their attractive tribological properties.Mainly reviews the current knowledge on the research and development of MMCS overseas,including the classification,fabrication methods,tribological properties,wear mechanisms and the effect of environment.The discussions on typical applications of some commercially available MMCS provide a some focal point of the work in the future research and applications.