The failure prediction requirements and the pertinent accept/reject criteria for structural ceramics are derived, and the available failure prediction techniques are examined, vis-a-vis the failure prediction relations , in order to highlight the capabilities and limitations of each technique. The need for additional techniques is thereby demonstrated. The capabilities of the ultrasonic technique are extensively evaluated in order to determine its ability to satisfy the deficiencies in the existing failure prediction repertoire. The prospects are shown to be very encouraging, but the results of several key studies must be awaited before defining the ultimate role of ultrasonic failure prediction techniques.