The Baby One More Time star will perform her new single Gimme More, which recently premiered on US radio stations, at the show in Las Vegas. The song, which has been described as a fast-paced dance track, will feature on her fifth album due for release in November.
A spokesperson for the music channel said that Spears was coordinating with illusionist Criss Angel, of Mindfreak fame, on her performance.
The award show's executive producer Jesse Ignjatovic said the pop princess had been asked to perform as it was important to start the show off with a bang.
Ignjatovic said: "Some of the biggest TV performances [of her career] have been at the VMAs [video music awards]. Fortunately, [when we approached her about performing], she was into it and excited to do it. I wanted her to come on and make a statement right from the very beginning of the show."
"I wanted to start the show in a very big and dramatic way, and she's the one to do that. She'll captivate everyone, and set the tone for the rest of the night. There's no one better," he added.
However he would not reveal details of the performance by the star, who has previously performed on stage with a snake at the annual MTV awards bash and bizarrely kissed Madonna at the 2003 ceremony.
"You can expect the things we want and expect from Britney — that will all be there," Ignjatovic said.
"Fans that are familiar with her performance on previous VMAs will not be disappointed," he added.
The MTV video music awards will take place on September 9th. British neo-soul star Amy Winehouse has been nominated for three awards at the show including video of the year and female artist of the year. Rihanna, famous for her summer hit Umbrella, will also compete with
Winehouse and Beyonce in the categories. She has been nominated for two other awards at the show.
