Hong Kong – September 07, 2026 -- Medtronic (NYSE: MDT) will invest approximately $700 million in Hong Kong-based Cornerstone Robotics and secure distribution rights for the SentireTM surgical robotic system across select ex-US markets where it has regulatory approval.

Medtronic gains distribution rights to Sentire outside the US

The strategic investment gives Medtronic access to markets where Sentire is already cleared, positioning the system as a complement to its existing Hugo robotic-assisted surgery platform. Matt Anderson, senior vice president and president of Medtronic's surgical division, said the deal strengthens the company's ability to expand access to minimally invasive surgery for more patients globally.

Sentire holds regulatory clearances in China, the EU and Singapore

China's National Medical Products Administration approved the Sentire system in 2024. In May 2026, the system received CE marking in the European Union and clearance from Singapore's Health Sciences Authority. Both approvals cover minimally invasive general, gynecological, thoracic and urological procedures.

Cornerstone Robotics built vertically integrated manufacturing to support scale

Cornerstone Robotics develops its hardware, control software, algorithms, and imaging and energy platforms internally, and operates a 30,000-square-meter manufacturing facility in China alongside three global R&D centers and six commercial hubs. Founder and CEO Kwok Wai Samuel AU said the partnership will accelerate the company's efforts to close the gap between rising demand for minimally invasive surgery and the limited availability of robotic-assisted technology worldwide.

Advisors on both sides finalized the transaction

Kirkland & Ellis and Global Law Office advised Cornerstone Robotics on legal matters. Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC served as exclusive financial advisor to Medtronic, with Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP acting as lead legal counsel.