In the evolving domain of European defense and security affairs policy, cognitive neuroscience and artificial intelligence have emerged as influential forces, significantly altering the landscape. As global security threats evolve rapidly, Europe faces the pressing need to enhance its cognitive warfare strategies, leveraging theoretical and applied knowledge from cognitive science and AI. Recent studies have delved into cognitive processes such as situational awareness, attention, working memory, perception, and decision-making, yet gaps remain in understanding how these processes can be fortified against unpredictable threats. The intersection of stress, cognitive overload, and situational awareness necessitates a profound exploration to define new paradigms of cognitive superiority in defense contexts.

This Research Topic aims to explore the mechanisms by which cognitive neuroscience and AI converge to enhance European defense capabilities. By examining the augmentation of human cognition through AI, Generative AI and innovative technologies such as virtual reality and neuro-stimulation, the research will address critical inquiries into the robustness of cognitive capacities under stress and fatigue. It will propose strategies to mitigate the performance degradation due to startle effects and high workload, also highlighting the significance of stress resilience in maintaining operational efficacy.

To gather further insights into the strategic nexus of cognitive enhancement and AI within European defense and Security affairs, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- The modern battlefield and cognitive warfare dynamics.
- Comprehensive reviews on cognitive processes and related behavioral performance.
- Impact assessments of unexpected stressors on cognitive functioning.
- Innovative AI-driven tools for augmenting human cognitive abilities.
- Integration of virtual and augmented reality in cognitive training.
- Prevention strategies for psychological disorders in post-war settings.
- Promoting mental readiness and preparedness across European defense forces.
- Emotionally based strategic communications during the war time.

We encourage submissions across various article types ranging from original research and reviews to opinion pieces and methodological advancements.

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Transforming European Defense and Security Affairs through the Integration of Cognitive Neuroscience and Artificial Intelligence