Mysterious Missile Reportedly Explodes at Russian Base, Purple Smoke Cloud Rises Over Orenburg

A rocket exploded during launch at a major Russian missile test range in the Orenburg region, sending a towering plume of purple smoke over the nearby town of Yasny, Russian outlet Astra reported on November 28.

Local residents heard a loud blast moments before the cloud formed above the site, which hosts both a launch complex and a base for long-range ground-launched missiles—including carriers capable of delivering nuclear warheads.

Authorities insisted there is “no threat” to the population and said evacuation is “not required,” despite images showing a distinct purple column rising above the missile field.

Video circulating on Russian social media appears to show the moment the rocket detonated in midair, erupting into a bright flash before the colored smoke began drifting over the launch zone.

Local emergency dispatchers told the outlet Ural56.ru that residents should remain calm and directed all additional questions to the Ministry of Defense. As of publication, no official comment has been issued by national authorities.

The test site near Yasny is one of only eleven facilities in Russia used for launching long-range missiles, including systems associated with the country’s nuclear arsenal.

Earlier, analysts dismissed Russia’s nuclear-powered Burevestnik cruise missile as outdated, risky, and strategically meaningless—a weapon built for propaganda, not deterrence.

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