The invention relates to a metal matrix ceramic composite and manufacturing method and application thereof. The metal matrix ceramic composite is completely formed by permeating at least part of a matrix metal into an array of ceramic granules by means of squeeze-casting. The volume percentage of the ceramic granules may be adjusted within a range of 10%-80% of the metal matrix ceramic composite according to the usage requirements. The metal matrix ceramic composites can not only retain high performance of anti-penetration, but also have the strong toughness of the metal; in addition, this composite has features of low density, resistance against ordinary mechanical cutting and flame cutting, and inhibition of crack propagation and the like. Therefore, said composite has broad application prospects in the protection of such important security facilities as safes, automatic teller machines and vault gates.