The CoBra project was driven by the overarching goal of enhancing the precision in both diagnosis and treatment of localized cancers, particularly focusing on the prostate and other soft tissues. The primary objective involved the development of an advanced medical robot prototype tailored for brachytherapy and biopsy procedures, meticulously guided by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). By deploying innovative technology under MRI control, the project sought to significantly elevate the accuracy of cancer diagnosis and treatment. The envisioned outcome was to elevate cure rates while concurrently minimizing side effects, thus advancing the overall quality of patient care. Through the amalgamation of cutting-edge robotics and MRI guidance, the CoBra project aspired to revolutionise medical interventions for localized cancers, ultimately contributing to a paradigm shift in healthcare by fostering more effective and less invasive diagnostic and therapeutic practices.

Cross-border cooperation was pivotal in the Cobra project and more broadly, in the fight against cancer with a particular focus on the 2 Seas area. In fact, it has brought significant change concerning collaboration among these regions: 90% of CoBra partners and observers had not collaborated with each other before the project. U-Lille (FR) contributed to the development of the robot in collaboration with an SME, Demcon (NL); UT-Delft (NL) will developed specific needles under IRM control; U-Port. (UK) worked on the time optimisation of treatment plans and the cancer mapping in the south of the UK. The Centre Oscar Lambret (Fr) and the NHS (UK) are referenced hospitals in the 2 Seas region for the Brachytherapy practice, while Oncovet (Fr) developed a platform for the principle proof of the concept for treatment of animal cancers. SATT-Nord (Fr) is a company specialized in the intellectual property of the technological innovation. Finally, Eurasanté (Fr) worked on the cancer mapping in the continent and links to SMEs in the exploitation of the results of the project. Overall, a joint approach defined this partnership and allowed them to have a wider reach when dealing with such a delicate issue. This integrated approach, involving partners who had not collaborated before the project, significantly expanded the project's reach and effectiveness in addressing the intricate challenges associated with cancer diagnosis and treatment. The multidisciplinary collaboration, spanning applied mathematics, science, engineering, and medical expertise, is showcased in the development of innovative robotic technology under in-bore MRI control. This cross-border cooperation, fostering diverse perspectives and expertise, proved indispensable for the success of the CoBra project, exemplifying the profound impact that joint efforts can have in the realm of medical advancements.