Indian Air Force to participate in Pitch Black Exercise in Australia

Current Context: India Air Force to participate in 17-nation air combat exercise 'Pitch Black' in Australia.

• The three-week-long Pitch Black exercise is hosted by Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). Over 100 aircraft and 2500 personnel from 17 nations will participate in the exercise.
• The countries that will participate in the exercise are Australia, Canada, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, the Republic of Korea, the UAE, Thailand, the US, and the UK. The exercise will be held in Australia's Northern territory.
• The exercise is scheduled to be held from August 19 to September 8 in Darwin. The Indian Air Force contingent led by Group Captain YPS Negi comprises 100 air warriors, deployed with four Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft and two C-17 aircraft.
• The last edition of the Pitch Black exercise was held in 2018. The 2020 edition of the exercise was canceled due to the COVID-19-induced pandemic. The exercise will include day and night flying and will be carried out given consideration to minimizing the impact on the local community and the environment.
• Static Knowledge:
• Capital of Australia - Canberra
• Currency of Australia - Australian Dollar

Question: 

Q.1 How many nations will participate in the Pitch Black exercise?
a. 15
b. 12
c. 17
d. 10