A gimbaled weapon system (GWS) implements methods for identifying and tracking a target. In one aspect, the sighting system of the GWS moves independently in elevation from the weapon cradle and tracks a target while the weapon cradle and attached weapon are maintained in a non-hostile position, such as a stowed or vertical position. In another aspect, the method uses a system of networked sensors in communication with an observation unit for the GWS. The sighting system is elevated using a second elevation drive to acquire a target based on signals received the system of networked sensors. The network sensors provide coordinates of probable targets, which can trigger automatic tracking of the target or an alarm to notify the operator of a probable target.