Allied submarines such as Seawolf and Truant were already operating in the theatre. After completing their attacks, Japanese cruiser forces dispersed rather than remaining in one concentrated formation. That interval gave submarines or carrier aircraft a chance to find smaller, more vulnerable targets. Exploiting such a brief opening required good reconnaissance and strike forces ready to act before the enemy reconcentrated.
Notable Point · 53:21-53:54
Dispersal created a fleeting counterattack opportunity
Once Japanese cruisers spread out after their attacks, Allied submarines or carrier aircraft might have struck isolated groups before they reconcentrated.