Military applications of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) for enhanced multitasking performance

Abstract Effective multitasking in high-stakes military environments is critical yet often compromised by cognitive overload, leading to operational errors. This scoping review explores the potential of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) as a cognitive enhancement tool for improving multitasking performance, with a focus on task-switching and dual-task paradigms. Evidence suggests that tDCS targeting the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) shows promise in mitigating task-switching deficits and reducing dual-task interference, particularly under unpredictable or high-demand conditions. However, variability in outcomes, influenced by stimulation parameters, task characteristics, and individual differences, highlights the need for further refinement of this approach. The limited but emerging evidence on high-definition tDCS (HD-tDCS) is also discussed, emphasizing its potential for more precise targeting, though current findings show mixed efficacy for multitasking enhancement. Practical applications of tDCS for military training and operations are examined, including skill acquisition, analyst performance, and drone piloting, where optimized multitasking capabilities could alleviate cognitive overload and enhance operational efficiency. While the findings are encouraging, additional research is essential to establish standardized protocols and assess the real-world utility of tDCS in complex military scenarios. This review highlights the importance of advancing neuromodulation techniques to address the increasing cognitive demands of modern military operations.