Reactive products of carbothermic reduction of ilmenite in a mixed air for iron-based Ti(C,N) composite were investigated, and more attention was paid to the effects of reaction conditions on the phase types of Ti(C,N)/Fe composites synthesized by carbothermic reduction. Pelletized mixtures of ilmenite powder and carbon powder were heated in a tube furnace to temperature between 1100 degreesC and 1450 degreesC for 1-6 hours in a mixed air. The phases presented in the reacted pellets were characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis and chemical analysis. The results showed that the reduction products of ilmenite were iron and titanium carbonitride rich in nitrogen without any oxygen. Complete conversion of ilmenite to Ti(C,N) was achieved at 1350 degreesC for 4 hours with no any oxides and carbon remaining.