The fields of neuroscience, psycho-pharmacology, and cognition are in rapid flux because new scientific tools have provided the capability to develop fundamental understanding of linkages among brain activity, electrical and chemical stimulation, and human behavior. Applications to human performance modification are being driven primarily by medical needs, e.g., “cognitive repair,” and there are significant new technological developments in this area. As a result, there is popular excitement about, and thus commercial markets for possible applications in “cognitive enhancement.” This area is certain to be investigated extensively over the next decade. Awareness of developments in cognitive performance enhancement, including cultural differences in adoption, will be important because these may affect the behavior and effectiveness of opposing military forces in both symmetric and asymmetric warfare. The findings and recommendations of our study fall under three categories, evaluation of military effectiveness, brain plasticity, and brain-computer interface as outlined below.
