* 2015 operational net profit 265 mln eur, above guidance
* European division achieves clear break-even
* Expects profit of 300-360 mln for 2016 (Adds detail on divisions, outlook)
BERLIN, Feb 25 (Reuters) - German construction firm Hochtief HOTG.DE said its operational net profit rose 39 percent to 265 million euros ($292 million) in 2015, above its guidance and beating analysts' expectations.
Hochtief, which specialises in road, tunnels and infrastructure, had guided for operational net profit of 220-260 million euros, while analysts had expected 254 million euros on average, according to a Reuters poll. European division for the first time in many years achieved a clear break-even result, Hochtief said, with 9 million euros of operational net profit.
Profits were also driven by Australian subsidiary CIMIC CIM.AX , which reported results earlier this month. said it would raise its dividend by 18 percent to 2.00 euros per share, fully in line with analysts' expectations.
"Hochtief's financial performance continues to improve in a sustainable manner," Hochtief said in a statement.
It said it expected operating net profit of between 300 and 360 million euros for 2016.
($1 = 0.9062 euros)