The Virtual Cockpit Optimization Program (VCOP) is providing an answer to the problem of information overload for pilots of modern military aircraft while reducing the cost of upgrading legacy aircraft. The concept of the virtual cockpit program is to provide the pilot with information such as situational awareness, sensor imagery, flight data, and battlefield information in a clear, non-confusing and intuitive manner, thus making the aircraft easier and safer to fly while also improving mission performance. The majority of the VCOP activity involves the integration of advanced technologies into a single system that represents a significant leap ahead in cockpit design philosophies. Rather than concentrating on the aircraft and how it can be retrofitted to meet the needs of the next generation warfighter, VCOP furnishes pilots with the necessary enhanced capabilities to perform their job more efficiently. VCOP is comprised of the following five independently developed technologies: Full color, high resolution, high brightness helmet-mounted display (HMD) that incorporates Virtual Retinal Display (VRD) technology; Three Dimensional (3D) audio; Speech recognition; Intelligent information management; and Crew-aided cognitive decision aides. These technologies will be integrated based upon the principles of Simulation and Modeling for Acquisition, Requirements, and Training (SMART), the application of Modeling and Simulation (M&S) techniques and technologies to the entire product development cycle of a system.