Labour leader Phil Goff says the previous government left the defence force in far better shape than it inherited from National.
Mr Goff, a former Defence Minister, said problems set out in a briefing paper are shared by forces in other countries.
The briefing for the new National-led Government warns of personnel shortages and problems with equipment purchases and upgrades.
It highlights problems with the navy's $500 million Project Protector purchase of seven new vessels.
Defence Minister Wayne Mapp has been told that, as a matter of urgency, he will be asked to consider the direction of the project, which is being hampered by disputes with main contractor BAE Systems Australia.
The briefing also says the Defence Force is struggling to retain experienced staff, and there remains a lack of skilled personnel in a number of critical trades and ranks.
Staff shortages in the navy are affecting its ability to put ships to sea.
Mr Mapp says the briefing for the new National-led Government confirms the need for a White Paper review to re-establish credible and sustainable defence priorities.
Phil Goff said ordering a White Paper was included in Labour's 2008 manifesto.
Mr Mapp says the White Paper review will also look at how to better manage the capital and operational budgets - which the briefing says are under "significant pressure."
