Assessment of fighter pilots' cognitive state in simulator training: A conceptual framework integrating situation...

This paper introduces a conceptual framework for using pilot cognitive state (PCS) in fighter pilot simulator training. PCS is defined as the cognitive state arising from the combined effects of situation awareness (SA) and mental workload (MWL), which influences a pilot's ability to make high-quality tactical decisions. The PCS framework combines post-mission assessments of SA and MWL with psychophysiological data collected during simulator missions and associated with SA, MWL, or both. The framework uses structured simulator debriefs to integrate instructor-assessed SA, pilot self-assessed MWL, and psychophysiological measurements, thereby providing a pathway toward future real-time estimation of PCS from psychophysiological data alone. The framework further enables PCS estimation to be iteratively refined as additional data become available. Its intended purpose is to support instructor pilots in evaluating training pilots' decision making, with the aim of improving formative assessment, adaptive training, and debrief-based learning. The framework is not presented as a validated operational tool but rather as a conceptual foundation for the future development and implementation of PCS assessment in fighter pilot simulator training.