The Manitoba government beefed up its flood fighting fleet on Friday by unveiling a brand new Amphibex icebreaking machine.

The massive machines, which resemble backhoes on barges and cost $1.2 million apiece, are used to cut ice and open channels in the rivers during the spring thaw.

That enables the ice to flow freely, rather than jam up and cause flooding.

Amphibex icebreakers at work on the Red River north of Selkirk in 2009. (Government of Manitoba)

The latest 20-tonne machine, unveiled at a dry dock near Selkirk, just north of Winnipeg, is the fourth in the fleet. However, the oldest of the bunch will now be retired, so the operational force will remain at three.

"The new Amphibex will replace the original machine and joins the two newest machines that have proven to be good investments in reducing the formation of ice jams by removing or breaking up ice in threatened areas," said Premier Greg Selinger.

"Ice jams are unpredictable, but we know from experience that these machines can make a difference and are an important part of our overall flood-fighting efforts."

The Amphibex machines will take to the ice this spring but prior to them getting to work, ice-cutting machines will be used first to make grooves in the ice to weaken it.

The Amphibex will then break a channel in the middle of the river.

"The first 2012 flood outlook is being developed now for release in late February," said Selinger.

"We have seen the impact nature can have on our province so it is important to maintain Manitoba's considerable flood-fighting abilities. Once again we will work with municipalities, refine plans and assess equipment needs to prepare for what may be coming this spring."