A new Al-based composite consisting of submicron-sized α-Al matrix embedded with precipitated intermetallic phases was developed by controlling the devitrification process of an Al-Ni-Y-Co-La amorphous alloy.Such a homogeneous composite structure presented an ultrahigh strength of about 1.34 GPa and a large compressive plastic strain up to 22%.The unique mechanical properties during compression are mainly attributed to the dislocation slip deformation of ductile a-AI matrix and the shear-induced refinement of strengthening intermetallic phases. A new Al-based composite consisting of submicron-sized α-Al matrix embedded with precipitated intermetallic phases was developed by controlling the devitrification process of an Al-Ni-Y-Co-La amorphous alloy. Such a homogeneous composite structure presented an ultrahigh strength of about 1.34 GPa and a large compressive plastic strain up to 22%. The unique mechanical properties during compression are mainly attributed to the dislocation slip deformation of ductile a-AI matrix and the shear-induced refinement of strengthening intermetallic phases.