What term describes the detection, identification, and location of a target allowing effective employment of capabilities?

The term that describes the detection, identification, and location of a target allowing effective employment of capabilities is "Target Acquisition." This concept is crucial in military operations as it encompasses the initial steps necessary for engaging an adversary. Effective target acquisition ensures that the right supports and resources can be mobilized to engage the target accurately, leading to successful mission execution.

Target acquisition involves various components, including the use of intelligence and surveillance resources to gather information about the target, confirming its presence, and determining its exact location. This process is foundational for subsequent actions in military operations, such as coordination for fire support or strategic planning.

In contrast, the other options relate to different aspects of military operations. The targeting process encompasses a broader range of steps including the acquisition, assessment, and engagement of targets. Attack guidance provides direction on how to engage a target once it has been identified, and target exploitation refers to the broader analysis and use of the information gained from a target after engagement. Therefore, target acquisition stands out as the specific process of identifying and locating targets to facilitate effective operational capabilities.