Created in 1939 based on the "Zerstörer" concept advocated by Hermann Göring, commander-in-chief of the Luftwaffe, the wing was only partially equipped with the Bf 110. Some units were designated "Jagdgruppe" 76 and flew the Messerschmitt Bf 109 during the Phoney War. Those elements ("gruppen", or groups) that operated the Bf 110 fought in the Invasion of Poland in September 1939 which began World War II. Thereafter, ZG 76 fought in the Battle of the German Bight in December 1939 which encouraged RAF Bomber Command to switch to night bombing. In April 1940 it supported the German invasion of Denmark and fought in the Norwegian Campaign. From May to October 1940 ZG 76 served in the Battle of Belgium, Battle of France and Battle of Britain. Elements of the wing fought in the German invasion of Yugoslavia, Battle of Greece and Battle of Crete. The majority of the "gruppen" were disbanded in late 1941 after serving in the early stages of the Defence of the Reich by defending the German-occupied Low Countries.