Richard J. Solberg Jr. is a seasoned executive whose career spans more than twenty-five years in international sales, marketing, and business development within the defense, aerospace, and security industries. As the Managing Member and President of Cavalcade Services, LLC, Richard has become a global connector—bridging the divide between end-users and manufacturers, governments and innovators, and ideas and execution. His work has not only propelled emerging technologies into new markets but has also reshaped how U.S. military and international agencies access critical defense and security solutions.
Richard’s professional journey began in Alaska, where his entrepreneurial drive first surfaced through the launch of Richie’s Guns and Ammo. There, he developed an acute understanding of product distribution, regulatory compliance, and market positioning—skills that would become the foundation of his future success. Serving sporting, law enforcement, and government clients, Richard established key distributorships for leading firearms manufacturers, including Heckler & Koch USA and Sig Sauer. His work in Alaska showcased his ability to identify market gaps and build strong, trust-based relationships in industries where integrity is paramount.
His transition to the defense manufacturing space came with the founding of Milkor U.S.A., where he served as International Sales and Marketing Manager and Founding Shareholder. Richard’s vision and persuasive leadership helped transform a concept into a multimillion-dollar enterprise. He championed the adoption of the 40mm multi-shot grenade launcher—an innovative platform initially met with skepticism—by U.S. military and federal law enforcement agencies. Through strategic demonstrations, contract negotiations, and deep technical understanding, he secured initial contract with the U.S. Marine Corps in 2005, followed by a five-year, $43 million agreement in 2010. Under his guidance, Milkor’s presence expanded globally, penetrating markets across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
Beyond sales success, Richard proved instrumental in establishing ISO-compliant manufacturing agreements, leading quality control operations, and ensuring compliance with U.S. Department of State export regulations. His approach to leadership has always combined meticulous attention to detail with a forward-thinking mindset. He not only developed and delivered product training programs for domestic and international clients but also wrote comprehensive training manuals and field curricula—fostering operational readiness and enhancing the effectiveness of end-user forces worldwide.
In 2008, Richard founded Cavalcade Services, LLC, a company that epitomizes his vision of global collaboration and excellence. Under his leadership, Cavalcade Services has cultivated relationships with over 400 agents across more than 70 countries. in the early days Cavalcade contracted and delivered tens of millions of rounds of ammunition and thousands of firearms made in the USA for the Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) war effort. 2015 Richard successfully delivered a $130 million dollar USA manufactured helicopter contract to a client in the middle east. Richard Opened up the African market in 2016 and delivered USA made products to over 21 African nations over the last 9 years. During the Covid 2020-22 pandemic, Richard delivered over $65 million worth of PPE to various domestic and international State Governments the world over. Cavalcade has singed hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of contracts in the war effort to support Ukraine starting from 2022. The grown in the USA domestic defense production industry is allowing Richard to continue to deliver goods and services to his clients and support American jobs. The company serves as a trusted intermediary for defense and security manufacturers, providing solutions that range from product design and development to export logistics and compliance with ITAR and U.S. Commerce regulations. Richard’s team supports clients in obtaining, delivering, and maintaining high-quality U.S.-made equipment for police, military, and security forces around the world—always upholding the highest ethical and legal standards.
Richard’s influence extends well beyond product sales. His expertise in international trade, logistics, and regulatory affairs has made him a sought-after advisor for organizations navigating the complexities of global commerce. He has played a pivotal role in developing new markets for American-made technologies, particularly in the defense and security sectors. His insights into international due diligence, RFP development, and supply chain management have enabled companies to achieve scalable growth while maintaining operational integrity.
Throughout his career, Richard has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to merge technical expertise with storytelling and brand positioning. He successfully brought Milkor’s products into popular culture—securing appearances in blockbuster films such as Transformers, Iron Man, and G.I. Joe, as well as television features on Future Weapons and the Military Channel’s Ultimate Weapons series. This innovative approach not only boosted public recognition but also reinforced the company’s credibility among government buyers and global partners.
International exposure has always been central to Richard’s professional identity. Having conducted business across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America, he possesses a rare cultural fluency and diplomatic tact. Whether negotiating with defense ministries, leading product demonstrations, or coordinating cross-border logistics, he maintains a steady balance of professionalism, respect, and results-driven focus. His fluency in global markets allows him to anticipate challenges and adapt quickly to the evolving dynamics of international defense procurement.
A family man at heart, Richard grounds his professional achievements in a strong sense of purpose and integrity. He approaches every partnership with authenticity and transparency, believing that sustainable business is built on trust. His ownership of two companies speaks to his entrepreneurial resilience, while his consistent focus on regulatory compliance underscores his respect for lawful and ethical conduct in international trade.
Today, Richard continues to push the boundaries of global defense innovation. His mission is to foster collaboration between manufacturers and end-users while promoting American excellence abroad. He remains deeply committed to helping organizations grow, adapt, and succeed in competitive markets through strategic insight, operational discipline, and cultural understanding. His career stands as a testament to perseverance, leadership, and the power of connecting people and ideas across borders.
Character:
Richard embodies integrity, responsibility, and perseverance. He approaches each challenge with humility and an unwavering sense of duty to his clients and team. His leadership style reflects an ethical foundation that prioritizes honesty, fairness, and the long-term success of every partnership.
Knowledge:
With more than twenty-five years of global experience, Richard possesses a comprehensive understanding of defense markets, international logistics, and compliance frameworks. His hands-on expertise in product development, government contracting, and export management enables him to guide organizations through complex operational landscapes. His depth of knowledge makes him a trusted authority in both U.S. and international markets.
Strategic:
Richard is a visionary leader who recognizes opportunity where others see obstacles. His ability to assess global market trends, anticipate client needs, and execute large-scale strategies has positioned him as a catalyst for growth. He consistently aligns tactical execution with long-term objectives, ensuring that every decision contributes to sustainable success.
Communication:
A natural communicator and relationship builder, Richard’s effectiveness stems from his clarity, empathy, and cross-cultural fluency. He is equally comfortable speaking in boardrooms, on international stages, and in the field with end-users. His ability to articulate complex concepts simply and persuasively has made him a trusted advisor and influential leader worldwide.
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