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Space structures and high-speed interceptor technology can be significantly enhanced if lighter weight composite structural materials that possess inherently high-strength damage-resistant properties can be developed on a cost-effective basis. A novel laminated sandwich composite concept is proposed that has the potential to significantly improve upon stiffened composites in use today. Current stiffened composites such as honeycomb cored laminates have limited high-temperature applications for advanced space and ground systems and generally are costly to fabricate and maintain. Innovative composite material concepts are proposed which offer significant potential improvement in service durability as well as lost cost of fabrication. The concepts consist of laminated face plates with foamed cores. The concepts utilize the addition of fibers into the foam core to provide increased shear strength. Through-the-thickness--oriented-reinforcement of the face plate provides additional impact resistance due to its crack arresting qualities.