Abstract: The "state" and "potential" are two-dimension variables of mutual evolution of combat elements in confrontation activities, they are revealed into the dynamic process of mutual transformation of energy-action under certain conditions, potential is the energy basis of state, state is the condition of potential accumulation. The cognition of potential is a complex calculation process of psychological activities, situation fu sion, data analysis and knowledge reasoning, and is the key to realize the leap from information domain state to cognitive domain. On the basis of expounding the connotation of relevant concepts, a five-level situation fusion model is proposed, the potential cognitive logic and mechanism of each level is analyzed, a new framework for the generation of battlefield situation, and the application prospects are proposed.