He said this in an interview with ArmyInform.
According to Bauer, NATO began to think about moving back to collective security in 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea.
"Now we all realize that time is not on our side when it comes to returning to collective security. Because the enemy decides when and where they attack you and how long the conflict will last. Ukraine, unfortunately, has seen this for itself. That means more trained soldiers, more capabilities, more weapons and ammunition, and better command and control," Bauer said.
He noted that the Alliance began to return to the collective security system in 2019: NATO member states changed their defense strategy, operational planning, and military forces needed to perform tasks.
When asked whether the North Atlantic Alliance is ready for a possible conflict with Russia, the admiral answered in the affirmative.
"Are we ready? Answer: Yes! This is our main task — to be ready. If it happens today, then you have to fight with what you have. It's always a combination of being ready for today and at the same time improving the opportunities for the future," Bauer said.