This review addresses the structure and phase formation mechanisms of self‐propagating high‐temperature synthesis (SHS) of single‐phase complex carbides Ta–Ti/Zr/Hf–C, as well as the consolidation of synthesized carbides by various sintering methods. Properties of the synthesized and consolidated complex carbides are described, and unique advantages of SHS method for the synthesis of ultra‐high temperature complex single‐phase carbides are highlighted.