As a result, the Japanese were prevented from resupplying their forces on the island using slow cargo vessels. Assessing the situation, Vice Admiral Gunichi Mikawa, commander of the Japanese Eighth Fleet, directed that light cruisers and destroyers carry supplies to Guadalcanal. These vessels were fast enough to make the roundtrip voyage from Japanese bases to Guadalcanal during nighttime hours. Dubbed the "Tokyo Express" by the Allies, this system of resupply proved moderately effective, but prevented the Japanese troops from transporting their heavy equipment and artillery to the island.
In the wake of the defeat, the Japanese began using submarines to carry ammunition and food to Guadalcanal.
This was vetoed by Wright who believed the range to excessive. Cole protested as his ships had an ideal firing setup. Two minutes passed before Wright gave permission. During this time, the Japanese had moved into a less ideal position. At 11:16 PM, having been made aware of the American presence, Tanaka ordered the resupply operations suspended and his ships to attack.